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Large‐scale neurocognitive networks and distributed processing for attention, language, and memory
Author(s) -
Mesulam MMarsel
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
annals of neurology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.764
H-Index - 296
eISSN - 1531-8249
pISSN - 0364-5134
DOI - 10.1002/ana.410280502
Subject(s) - neurocognitive , cognition , computer science , flexibility (engineering) , artificial neural network , cognitive flexibility , cognitive psychology , psychology , cognitive science , neuroscience , artificial intelligence , statistics , mathematics
Abstract Cognition and comportment are subserved by interconnected neural networks that allow high‐level computational architectures including parallel distributed processing. Cognitive problems are not resolved by a sequential and hierarchical progression toward predetermined goals but instead by a simultaneous and interactive consideration of multiple possibilities and constraints until a satisfactory fit is achieved. The resultant texture of mental activity is characterized by almost infinite richness and flexibility. According to this model, complex behavior is mapped at the level of multifocal neural systems rather than specific anatomical sites, giving rise to brain‐behavior relationships that are both localized and distributed. Each network contains anatomically addressed channels for transferring information content and chemically addressed pathways for modulating behavioral tone. This approach provides a blueprint for reexploring the neurological foundations of attention, language, memory, and frontal lobe function.