scholarly journals Consciousness, decision making, and volition: freedom beyond chance and necessity

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hans Liljenström
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Free Will ◽  
Brain Activity ◽  
Brain Structures ◽  
Complex Process ◽  
Neural Information ◽  
Neural Information Processing ◽  
Stochastic Population Model ◽  
The Brain

AbstractWhat is the role of consciousness in volition and decision-making? Are our actions fully determined by brain activity preceding our decisions to act, or can consciousness instead affect the brain activity leading to action? This has been much debated in philosophy, but also in science since the famous experiments by Libet in the 1980s, where the current most common interpretation is that conscious free will is an illusion. It seems that the brain knows, up to several seconds in advance what “you” decide to do. These studies have, however, been criticized, and alternative interpretations of the experiments can be given, some of which are discussed in this paper. In an attempt to elucidate the processes involved in decision-making (DM), as an essential part of volition, we have developed a computational model of relevant brain structures and their neurodynamics. While DM is a complex process, we have particularly focused on the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) for its emotional, and the lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) for its cognitive aspects. In this paper, we present a stochastic population model representing the neural information processing of DM. Simulation results seem to confirm the notion that if decisions have to be made fast, emotional processes and aspects dominate, while rational processes are more time consuming and may result in a delayed decision. Finally, some limitations of current science and computational modeling will be discussed, hinting at a future development of science, where consciousness and free will may add to chance and necessity as explanation for what happens in the world.

GLOBAL EFFECTS OF FLUCTUATIONS IN NEURAL INFORMATION PROCESSING

1996 ◽  
Vol 07 (04) ◽  
pp. 497-505 ◽  
Author(s):  
HANS LILJENSTRÖM
Keyword(s):  
Information Processing ◽  
Neuronal Excitability ◽  
Complex Dynamics ◽  
Memory State ◽  
Cortical Dynamics ◽  
Neural Information ◽  
Neural Information Processing ◽  
Correct Pattern ◽  
The Brain

We are interested in how the complex dynamics of the brain, which may include oscillations, chaos and noise, can affect the efficiency of neural information processing. Here, we consider the amplification and functional role of fluctuations, expressed as chaos or noise in the system. Using computer simulations of a neural network model of the olfactory cortex, we demonstrate how microscopic fluctuations can result in global effects at the network level. In particular, we show that the rate of information processing in associative memory tasks can be maximized for optimal noise levels. Noise can also induce transitions between different dynamical states, related to learning and memory. A chaotic-like behavior, induced by noise or by an increase in neuronal excitability, can enhance system performance if it is transient and converges to a limit cycle memory state. The level of accuracy required for correct pattern association further affects the rate of information processing. We discuss how neuromodulatory control of the cortical dynamics can shift the balance between rate and accuracy optimization, as well as between sensitivity and stability.

scholarly journals The role of the brain in financial decisions: A viewpoint on neuroeconomics

2018 ◽  
pp. 6
Author(s):  
Guillermo Mateu ◽  
Lucas Monzani ◽  
Roger Muñoz Navarro
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Financial Markets ◽  
Brain Activity ◽  
Financial Decisions ◽  
Main Research ◽  
Economic Decisions ◽  
Decision Making Processes ◽  
Financial Decision ◽  
The Brain

In this article, we explain the important role neuroscience plays in economic and financial environments. Hence, we present neuroeconomics as a way to describe how decision-making processes affect brain activity, focusing especially on the importance of economic and financial decisions. We answer some questions regarding the role of emotions in finance, the psychological factors present in financial markets, and how neuropsychological stimuli affect our economic decisions. We conclude by citing the main research in the area of neuroscience in financial decision-making processes, and highlight further research projects in these areas.

scholarly journals Feedback Network Controls Photoreceptor Output at the Layer of First Visual Synapses in Drosophila

2006 ◽  
Vol 127 (5) ◽  
pp. 495-510 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lei Zheng ◽  
Gonzalo G. de Polavieja ◽  
Verena Wolfram ◽  
Musa H. Asyali ◽  
Roger C. Hardie ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Compound Eye ◽  
Amacrine Cells ◽  
Feedback Network ◽  
Coding Strategies ◽  
Neural Information ◽  
Neural Information Processing ◽  
Light Stimuli ◽  
The Brain

At the layer of first visual synapses, information from photoreceptors is processed and transmitted towards the brain. In fly compound eye, output from photoreceptors (R1–R6) that share the same visual field is pooled and transmitted via histaminergic synapses to two classes of interneuron, large monopolar cells (LMCs) and amacrine cells (ACs). The interneurons also feed back to photoreceptor terminals via numerous ligand-gated synapses, yet the significance of these connections has remained a mystery. We investigated the role of feedback synapses by comparing intracellular responses of photoreceptors and LMCs in wild-type Drosophila and in synaptic mutants, to light and current pulses and to naturalistic light stimuli. The recordings were further subjected to rigorous statistical and information-theoretical analysis. We show that the feedback synapses form a negative feedback loop that controls the speed and amplitude of photoreceptor responses and hence the quality of the transmitted signals. These results highlight the benefits of feedback synapses for neural information processing, and suggest that similar coding strategies could be used in other nervous systems.

scholarly journals Peptides Derived from Growth Factors to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (11) ◽  
pp. 6071
Author(s):  
Suzanne Gascon ◽  
Jessica Jann ◽  
Chloé Langlois-Blais ◽  
Mélanie Plourde ◽  
Christine Lavoie ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Growth Factors ◽  
Signaling Pathways ◽  
Brain Structures ◽  
Therapeutic Strategies ◽  
Native Proteins ◽  
Receptor Sites ◽  
The Brain

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive neuron losses in memory-related brain structures. The classical features of AD are a dysregulation of the cholinergic system, the accumulation of amyloid plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles. Unfortunately, current treatments are unable to cure or even delay the progression of the disease. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies have emerged, such as the exogenous administration of neurotrophic factors (e.g., NGF and BDNF) that are deficient or dysregulated in AD. However, their low capacity to cross the blood–brain barrier and their exorbitant cost currently limit their use. To overcome these limitations, short peptides mimicking the binding receptor sites of these growth factors have been developed. Such peptides can target selective signaling pathways involved in neuron survival, differentiation, and/or maintenance. This review focuses on growth factors and their derived peptides as potential treatment for AD. It describes (1) the physiological functions of growth factors in the brain, their neuronal signaling pathways, and alteration in AD; (2) the strategies to develop peptides derived from growth factor and their capacity to mimic the role of native proteins; and (3) new advancements and potential in using these molecules as therapeutic treatments for AD, as well as their limitations.

scholarly journals Brain as agent and conscious mind as action guide: from Libet-style experiments to necessary conditions for free will

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 78-83
Author(s):  
Jonas Gonçalves Coelho
Keyword(s):  
Free Will ◽  
Necessary Conditions ◽  
Brain Activity ◽  
The Body ◽  
General View ◽  
Conscious Mind ◽  
Sociocultural Environment ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Conscious Intention ◽  
The Brain

Many neuroscientific experiments, based on monitoring brain activity, suggest that it is possible to predict the conscious intention/choice/decision of an agent before he himself knows that. Some neuroscientists and philosophers interpret the results of these experiments as showing that free will is an illusion, since it is the brain and not the conscious mind that intends/chooses/decides. Assuming that the methods and results of these experiments are reliable the question is if they really show that free will is an illusion. To address this problem, I argue that first it is needed to answer three questions related to the relationship between conscious mind and brain: 1. Do brain events cause conscious events? 2. Do conscious events cause brain events? 3. Who is the agent, that is, who consciously intends/chooses/ decides, the conscious mind, the brain, or both? I answer these questions by arguing that the conscious mind is a property of the brain due to which the brain has the causal capacity to interact adaptively with its body, and trough the body, with the physical and sociocultural environment. In other words, the brain is the agent and the conscious mind, in its various forms - cognitive, volitional and emotional - and contents, is its guide of action. Based on this general view I argue that the experiments aforementioned do not show that free will is an illusion, and as a starting point for examining this problem I point out, from some exemplary situations, what I believe to be some of the necessary conditions for free will.Key-words: Agent brain, conscious mind, free will, Libet-style experiments.

Is Artistic Composition in Abstract Art Detected Automatically?

2021 ◽  
pp. 102-106
Author(s):  
Claudia Menzel ◽  
Gyula Kovács ◽  
Gregor U. Hayn-Leichsenring ◽  
Christoph Redies
Keyword(s):  
Human Brain ◽  
Significant Role ◽  
Mismatch Negativity ◽  
Brain Activity ◽  
Perceptual Processing ◽  
Abstract Art ◽  
Electrical Brain Activity ◽  
Image Set ◽  
The Brain

Most artists who create abstract paintings place the pictorial elements not at random, but arrange them intentionally in a specific artistic composition. This arrangement results in a pattern of image properties that differs from image versions in which the same pictorial elements are randomly shuffled. In the article under discussion, the original abstract paintings of the author’s image set were rated as more ordered and harmonious but less interesting than their shuffled counterparts. The authors tested whether the human brain distinguishes between these original and shuffled images by recording electrical brain activity in a particular paradigm that evokes a so-called visual mismatch negativity. The results revealed that the brain detects the differences between the two types of images fast and automatically. These findings are in line with models that postulate a significant role of early (low-level) perceptual processing of formal image properties in aesthetic evaluations.

scholarly journals Role of Thalamus in Recovery of Traumatic Brain Injury

2016 ◽  
Vol 07 (S 01) ◽  
pp. S076-S079 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashok Munivenkatappa ◽  
Amit Agrawal
Keyword(s):  
Traumatic Brain Injury ◽  
Brain Injury ◽  
Brain Structures ◽  
Thalamic Nuclei ◽  
Posttraumatic Symptoms ◽  
Injured Brain ◽  
Recovery Mechanisms ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Degree Of Recovery

ABSTRACTDegree of recovery after traumatic brain injury is highly variable that lasts for many weeks to months. The evidence of brain structures involved in recovery mechanisms is limited. This review highlights evidence of the brain structure particularly thalamus in neuroplasticity mechanism. Thalamus with its complex global networking has potential role in refining the cortical and other brain structures. Thalamic nuclei activation both naturally or by neurorehabilitation in injured brain can enhance and facilitate the improvement of posttraumatic symptoms. This review provides evidence from literature that thalamus plays a key role in recovery mechanism after injury. The study also emphasize that thalamus should be specifically targeted in neurorehabilitation following brain injury.

scholarly journals An empirical investigation into the role of values in occupational therapy decision-making

2019 ◽  
Vol 82 (6) ◽  
pp. 357-366 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yvonne Thomas ◽  
David Seedhouse ◽  
Vanessa Peutherer ◽  
Michael Loughlin
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Occupational Therapy ◽  
Personal Experience ◽  
Occupational Therapists ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Therapy Decision ◽  
Complex Process ◽  
Value Judgements ◽  
Psychological Influences

Introduction The importance of values in occupational therapy is generally agreed; however, there is no consensus about their nature or their influence on practice. It is widely assumed that occupational therapists hold and act on a body of shared values, yet there is a lack of evidence to support this. Method The research tested the hypothesis that occupational therapists’ responses to ethically challenging situations would reveal common values specific to the occupational therapy profession. A total of 156 occupational therapists were asked to decide what should be done in five common-place yet ethically complex situations, presented as scenarios for debate. Results The results show that while most occupational therapists share very general values, they frequently disagree about what to do in practice situations, often justifying their choices with different and sometimes conflicting specific values. In some cases, the same respondents espouse contradictory values in similar situations. Conclusion The extensive literature about decision-making – together with the study’s results – confirm that when occupational therapists make decisions, they draw on multiple factors, consciously and unconsciously. These factors vary between individuals. Value judgements are one part only of a complex process which includes personal experience, intuition, social influences, culture, psychological influences and relationships with both colleagues and clients.

scholarly journals Neuroeconomics

2004 ◽  
Vol 359 (1451) ◽  
pp. 1737-1748 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Zeki ◽  
O. R. Goodenough ◽  
Paul J. Zak
Keyword(s):  
Public Policy ◽  
Decision Making ◽  
Brain Activity ◽  
Measurement Techniques ◽  
Delay Of Gratification ◽  
Strategic Decisions ◽  
Social Decisions ◽  
New Directions

This paper introduces an emerging transdisciplinary field known as neuroeconomics. Neuroeconomics uses neuroscientific measurement techniques to investigate how decisions are made. First, I present a basic overview of neuroanatomy and explain how brain activity is measured. I then survey findings from the neuroeconomics literature on acquiring rewards and avoiding losses, learning, choice under risk and ambiguity, delay of gratification, the role of emotions in decision-making, strategic decisions and social decisions. I conclude by identifying new directions that neuroeconomics is taking, including applications to public policy and law.

Precis of Vigor: Neuroeconomics of movement control

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Reza Shadmehr ◽  
Alaa A. Ahmed
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
New York ◽  
Neural Circuits ◽  
Movement Control ◽  
Brain Structures ◽  
The Other ◽  
Neural Basis ◽  
Hand Control ◽  
Measured Activity ◽  
The Brain

Abstract Why do we run toward people we love, but only walk toward others? Why do people in New York seem to walk faster than other cities? Why do our eyes linger longer on things we value more? There is a link between how the brain assigns value to things, and how it controls our movements. This link is an ancient one, developed through shared neural circuits that on one hand teach us how to value things, and on the other hand control the vigor with which we move. As a result, when there is damage to systems that signal reward, like dopamine and serotonin, that damage not only affects our mood and patterns of decision making, but how we move. In this book, we first ask why in principle evolution should have developed a shared system of control between valuation and vigor. We then focus on the neural basis of vigor, synthesizing results from experiments that have measured activity in various brain structures and neuromodulators, during tasks in which animals decide how patiently they should wait for reward, and how vigorously they should move to acquire it. Thus, the way we move unmasks one of our well-guarded secrets: how much we value the thing we are moving toward.

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