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Unaware urges? Let's not complicate matters further.

Edward H F de Haan1

  • 1a Department of Psychology and Centre of Cognitive Sciences Amsterdam , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands.

Cognitive Neuroscience
|October 31, 2013
PubMed
Summary

This study explores the neuroanatomical basis of urges-for-action, finding compelling evidence in neuroimaging meta-analyses. However, it questions the distinction between conscious and unconscious urges, asserting awareness as a core feature.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Science

Background:

  • The neuroanatomical basis of urges-for-action is a complex and debated topic.
  • Existing models propose distinct neural mechanisms underlying urges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the compelling neuroanatomical model for urges-for-action.
  • To critically assess the distinction between conscious and unconscious urges.

Main Methods:

  • Meta-analysis of existing neuroimaging data.
  • Theoretical argumentation and conceptual analysis.

Main Results:

  • Neuroimaging meta-analyses provide elegant and convincing support for the proposed neuroanatomical model.
  • The distinction between conscious and unaware urges is challenged.

Conclusions:

  • The neuroanatomical model for urges-for-action is strongly supported by current evidence.
  • Awareness is proposed as a defining characteristic of an urge, questioning the dichotomy of conscious vs. unconscious urges.