Related Experiment Videos
The modern concept of association cortex
1Department of Anatomy, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242.
Current Opinion in Neurobiology
|April 1, 1993
Summary
New data on association cortices support using this concept, despite previous localization concerns. Modern understanding acknowledges multiple interactive neural systems contributing to cognition.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Extensive neuroanatomical, neurophysiological, and neurobehavioral data have been collected on association cortices.
- The concept of association cortices has been historically debated due to concerns about strict localization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the utility of the association cortices concept in light of recent data.
- To discuss the implications of modern neuroscience on understanding cognitive functions.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent neuroanatomical data.
- Analysis of neurophysiological findings.
- Synthesis of neurobehavioral evidence.
Main Results:
- The growing body of data makes the concept of association cortices more applicable.
- Recognition of multiple interactive neural systems has mitigated concerns regarding strict localization.
Conclusions:
- The concept of association cortices remains a valuable, albeit general, framework for understanding cognition.
- Current understanding emphasizes distributed neural networks rather than isolated brain regions for cognitive processes.