Network Theory and Consciousness

August 2, 2017 Scott Joy

The black dots correspond to the 264 areas of the cerebral cortex that the researchers probed, and the lines correspond to the increased strength of the functional connections between each of these brain areas when subjects consciously perceive the target. The "hotter" colors are associated with stronger connections. This figure illustrates that awareness of the target corresponds to widespread increase in the strength of functional connections (Marois / Godwin).

Summary

Vanderbilt University researchers with a recent brain imaging study discovered global changes in how brain areas communicate with one another during awareness.

Using graph theory, a branch of mathematics concerned with explaining the interactive links between members of a complex network, such as social networks or flight routes, the researchers aimed to characterize how connections between the various parts of the brain were related to awareness.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 3/9/15

OnAir Post: Network Theory and Consciousness

Discuss

OnAir membership is required. The lead Moderator for the discussions is Scott Joy. We encourage civil, honest, and safe discourse. For more information on commenting and giving feedback, see our Comment Guidelines.