Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
26:41
Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
In Search of the "Eloquent Brain": History, Science, and Future
James Tanner McMahon1, Isabel C Legarda2, Joseph Giacino3,4
1Department of Neurosurgery, Mass General Brigham, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Neurosurgery
|May 27, 2026
Summary
The terms "eloquent" and "noneloquent" cortex in neurosurgery are outdated. A new framework focusing on network essentiality and neuroplasticity is needed for better patient care.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroanatomy
Background:
- The classification of brain cortex as "eloquent" or "noneloquent" is widely used in neurosurgical practice.
- The scientific validity and historical origins of this terminology are seldom critically examined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the utility of the "eloquence" framework in modern neurosurgery.
- To examine the historical development of cerebral localization and neurosurgical nomenclature.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a literature review of early and influential uses of "eloquence" terminology in PubMed.
- Analyzed historical textbooks and scientific milestones in cerebral localization and functional mapping.
Main Results:
- Cerebral localization has evolved from rigid models to dynamic, network-based understanding.
- The "eloquence" terminology is a recent construct that has not kept pace with neurobiological advances.
- The binary "eloquent/noneloquent" framework conflicts with neuroimaging and connectomics, and presents clinical/ethical challenges.
Conclusions:
- The "eloquence" designation reflects an outdated, rigid model of brain function.
- Propose an updated framework prioritizing network essentiality, neuroplastic potential, and certainty.
- Moving beyond the binary allows for a more nuanced, personalized approach to functional preservation in neurosurgery.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Higher Mental Functions of the Brain: Language
Language is a system of communication that allows the expression of thoughts, ideas, and feelings. The brain processes language in both hemispheres.
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
02:34Empathy
Some researchers suggest that altruism operates on empathy. Empathy is the capacity to understand another person’s perspective, to feel what he or she feels. An empathetic person makes an emotional connection with others and feels compelled to help (Batson, 1991). Empathy can be expressed in several ways, including cognitive, affective, and motor.
01:30Organization of the Brain
The brain is an integral component of the nervous system and serves as the center for processing sensory inputs, making decisions, and directing bodily actions. This complex organ is organized into three primary sections: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each responsible for a range of vital functions.
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
01:17Cognitivism
Cognitive psychology emerged as a significant field in the mid-20th century. It focused on understanding humans' internal mental processes. This approach emphasizes how people perceive, remember, think, and solve problems—elements critical to human cognition.
Previously dominated by behaviorism, which prioritized observable behaviors and largely ignored mental processes, psychology transformed in the 1950s. Cognitive psychologists argue that understanding how we think and process information is...
Previously dominated by behaviorism, which prioritized observable behaviors and largely ignored mental processes, psychology transformed in the 1950s. Cognitive psychologists argue that understanding how we think and process information is...
01:22Neurons as Communicators of the Brain
Neurons, the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system, function as the primary transmitters of information throughout the body. Their ability to communicate through electrical and chemical signals is vital for every bodily function, from regulating the heartbeat to processing complex thoughts. Each neuron has three main components: the cell body (soma), dendrites, and an axon, each specialized to facilitate swift and efficient neural communication.
Cell Body
The cell body, also known...
Cell Body
The cell body, also known...
01:26Higher Mental Functions of Brain: Learning and Memory
Memory is one of the most vital higher mental functions of the brain. Memory is closely related to learning because it enables us to retain information and experiences from our past to use them in our present life. It also helps us to remember facts, events, and skills, such as riding a bike or swimming. There are two types of memory — declarative memory, which involves memorizing facts or events, and procedural memory, which enables us to remember how to do something like writing or playing an...