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Related Concept Videos

Fixed Action Patterns01:06

Fixed Action Patterns

A fixed action pattern (FAP) is a specific, hard-wired sequence of behaviors that occurs in response to an external stimulus, called a sign stimulus. The behavior is “fixed” because it is essentially unchangeable—proceeding similarly across individuals of a species every time it occurs.
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Action Potentials

Overview
Propagation of Action Potentials01:23

Propagation of Action Potentials

The propagation of an action potential refers to the process by which a nerve impulse, or "action potential," travels along a neuron.
Neurons (nerve cells) have a resting membrane potential, with a slightly negative charge inside compared to outside. This is maintained by ion channels, such as sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) channels, which control the flow of ions. When a stimulus, like a touch or a signal from another neuron, triggers the neuron, sodium channels open, allowing sodium ions to...
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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...
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Impression Management Techniques III: Aligning Actions

Aligning actions are communicative strategies individuals employ to maintain social harmony and preserve personal identity in the face of potential disruptions to social norms. These actions are particularly important in managing social impressions when one's behavior might be seen as inappropriate, incompetent, or morally questionable.Types of Aligning ActionsThe three principal types of aligning actions are disclaimers, accounts, and apologies.DisclaimersDisclaimers are preventive; they are...
Action Potential01:14

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Neurons communicate by firing action potentials—the electrochemical signal that is propagated along the axon. The signal results in the release of neurotransmitters at axon terminals, thereby transmitting information to the nervous system. An action potential is a specific "all-or-none" change in membrane potential that results in a rapid spike in voltage.
Membrane potential in neurons
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Related Experiment Video

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Corticospinal Excitability Modulation During Action Observation
12:33

Corticospinal Excitability Modulation During Action Observation

Published on: December 31, 2013

Mind as action.

W J Frawley1

  • 1Department of Linguistics, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.

Trends in Cognitive Sciences
|January 14, 2011
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

This book explores the dynamic nature of human cognition and social interaction. It delves into how individuals use tools and signs to mediate their understanding of the world.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Linguistics
  • Sociology

Background:

  • Examines the role of mediation in human cognition.
  • Explores the Vygotskian perspective on the development of higher mental functions.
  • Discusses the interplay between individual minds and social/cultural contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the concept of mediation in human thought and action.
  • To provide a comprehensive overview of Wertsch's theoretical framework.
  • To illustrate how cultural tools shape psychological processes.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical analysis of concepts in psychology and semiotics.
  • Integration of Vygotskian and Bakhtinian theories.
  • Case studies and examples from various cultural contexts.

Main Results:

  • Human cognition is fundamentally mediated by cultural tools and signs.
  • The self is constructed through social interaction and the use of language.
  • Understanding requires analyzing the interplay between individual and cultural factors.

Conclusions:

  • Mediation is central to understanding human consciousness and social life.
  • Cultural-historical psychology offers a powerful lens for analyzing human development.
  • Further research should explore the application of these concepts in diverse settings.