Search research articles

ABOUT JoVE

Overview Leadership Blog JoVE Help Center

AUTHORS

Publishing Process Editorial Board Scope & Policies Peer Review FAQ Submit

LIBRARIANS

Testimonials Subscriptions Access Resources Library Advisory Board FAQ

RESEARCH

JoVE Journal Methods Collections JoVE Encyclopedia of Experiments Archive

EDUCATION

JoVE Core JoVE Business JoVE Science Education JoVE Lab Manual Faculty Resource Center Faculty Site

Terms & Conditions of Use

Related Concept Videos

Structure of Self

Structure of Self

Sigmund Freud's model of the human psyche is often illustrated using an iceberg analogy. The iceberg's visible tip represents the conscious mind, which includes thoughts and perceptions that individuals are immediately aware of. However, the larger, submerged portion of the iceberg represents the unconscious mind, a reservoir of repressed desires, instincts, and memories. According to Freud, human behavior is primarily shaped by this hidden realm.
Components of the Mind: Id, Ego, and Superego

Reason and Intuition

Reason and Intuition

The human brain processes information for decision-making using one of two routes: an intuitive system and a rational system (Epstein, 1994; popularized by Kahneman, 2011 as System 1 and System 2, respectively). The intuitive system is quick, impulsive, and operates with minimal effort, relying on emotions or habits to provide cues for what to do next, while the rational system is logical, analytical, deliberate, and methodical. Research in neuropsychology suggests that the brain can only use...

Understanding the Self

Understanding the Self

The self is a central aspect of human identity, encompassing an individual’s beliefs, emotions, perceptions, and experiences. It is a cognitive and psychological construct that enables individuals to interpret their traits and behaviors, influencing how they perceive themselves and interact with the world. While personality consists of stable and enduring characteristics, the self is shaped by self-perception and social experiences. This distinction highlights the dynamic nature of the self,...

Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other

Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other

According to George Herbert Mead, as children progress beyond the game stage, they develop a more comprehensive understanding of societal rules and norms. This cognitive and social development enables them to internalize the expectations of the broader community, refining their ability to regulate behavior.Consistent participation in organized activities is crucial in helping children recognize that their actions are not isolated but contribute to a more significant, interconnected group effort.

Self Within Cultural Contexts

Self Within Cultural Contexts

Cultural frameworks for understanding the self are often categorized into two broad orientations: individualism and collectivism. These paradigms influence how people define themselves, relate to others, and interpret their social worlds. Each orientation offers distinct perspectives on autonomy, responsibility, and the role of the individual within a community.Individualistic CulturesIn individualistic cultures like North America and Western Europe, identity is understood as autonomous and...

Gut-Brain Axis

Gut-Brain Axis

The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...

You might also read

Related Articles

Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

Sort by

Same author

Modeling the physiological responses of anuran R3 ganglion cells.

Vision research·2002

Same author

Competitive Hebbian learning and the hippocampal place cell system: modeling the interaction of visual and path integration cues.

Hippocampus·2002

Same author

Co-evolution of human consciousness and language.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences·2001

Same author

Modeling functions of striatal dopamine modulation in learning and planning.

Neuroscience·2001

Same author

Précis of Neural organization: structure, function, and dynamics.

The Behavioral and brain sciences·2001

Same author

Synthetic brain imaging: grasping, mirror neurons and imitation.

Neural networks : the official journal of the International Neural Network Society·2001

Search research articles

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Published on: July 31, 2007

Self and society: between God and brain.

¹USC Brain Project, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-2520, USA.

Trends in Cognitive Sciences

|January 14, 2011

Summary

This study explores the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and the concept of divine action. It examines how our understanding of the brain influences theological perspectives on supernatural intervention.

Area of Science:

Cognitive Neuroscience
Theology
Philosophy of Religion

Background:

The relationship between scientific understanding of the mind and religious beliefs is a complex and evolving field.
Investigating the cognitive underpinnings of religious experiences and beliefs offers new avenues for theological discourse.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore the implications of cognitive neuroscience findings for understanding divine action.
To foster interdisciplinary dialogue between scientists and theologians on the nature of God's interaction with the world.

Main Methods:

The study is based on discussions and presentations from a conference held in June 1998 in Paserbiec, Poland.
It synthesizes perspectives from cognitive neuroscience, philosophy, and theology.

More Related Videos

Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation of the Posterior Medial Frontal Cortex to Experimentally Reduce Ideological Threat Responses

Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation of the Posterior Medial Frontal Cortex to Experimentally Reduce Ideological Threat Responses

Published on: September 28, 2018

Religious Chanting and Self-Related Brain Regions: A Multi-Modal Neuroimaging Study

Religious Chanting and Self-Related Brain Regions: A Multi-Modal Neuroimaging Study

Published on: May 31, 2024

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Published on: July 31, 2007

Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation of the Posterior Medial Frontal Cortex to Experimentally Reduce Ideological Threat Responses

Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation of the Posterior Medial Frontal Cortex to Experimentally Reduce Ideological Threat Responses

Published on: September 28, 2018

Religious Chanting and Self-Related Brain Regions: A Multi-Modal Neuroimaging Study

Religious Chanting and Self-Related Brain Regions: A Multi-Modal Neuroimaging Study

Published on: May 31, 2024

Main Results:

Cognitive models of the mind can inform theological concepts of divine agency.
Neuroscientific explanations for religious experiences do not necessarily negate the possibility of divine action.

Conclusions:

A nuanced understanding of cognitive processes is essential for contemporary theological reflection on divine action.
Interdisciplinary approaches are crucial for bridging the gap between scientific and religious worldviews.