Chapter 1: Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience
* Defines cognitive neuroscience as the study of the biological mechanisms underlying cognition.
* Emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the field, drawing from psychology, neuroscience, and computer science.
* Example: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies showing that brain regions involved in language processing are activated when people read words.
Chapter 2: Neural Basis of Sensation and Perception
* Explores how sensory organs transduce physical stimuli into neural signals.
* Discusses the role of specialized brain regions in processing different sensory modalities, such as vision and hearing.
* Example: Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings revealing distinct patterns of brain activity when people perceive different visual objects.
Chapter 3: Attention and Working Memory
* Investigates the neural mechanisms that enable selective attention and short-term memory.
* Highlights the role of the frontal cortex and parietal cortex in these cognitive processes.
* Example: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies showing that disrupting activity in the prefrontal cortex impairs working memory performance.
Chapter 4: Language and Memory
* Examines the neural basis of language comprehension, production, and memory.
* Describes the specialized brain regions involved in processing different aspects of language, such as semantics and syntax.
* Example: fMRI studies identifying the left inferior frontal gyrus as a key region for speech production and the left temporal lobe for semantic memory.
Chapter 5: Learning and Plasticity
* Explores the neural mechanisms underlying learning and memory formation.
* Focuses on the role of the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex in these processes.
* Example: Animal studies using electrophysiological recordings showing that neurons in the hippocampus encode new memories.
Chapter 6: Emotion and Motivation
* Investigates the neural basis of emotions, such as fear, anger, and happiness.
* Examines the role of the limbic system and neocortex in emotional processing and regulation.
* Example: fMRI studies revealing that activation in the amygdala is associated with feelings of fear.
Chapter 7: Decision-Making and Free Will
* Explores the neural mechanisms underlying decision-making and the concept of free will.
* Discusses the role of the prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and limbic system in these processes.
* Example: Single-unit recordings in monkeys showing that neurons in the prefrontal cortex represent the value of potential choices during decision-making.
Chapter 8: Consciousness and the Self
* Investigates the neural basis of consciousness and self-awareness.
* Examines the role of the frontal lobes, parietal lobes, and temporal lobes in these processes.
* Example: fMRI studies identifying a network of brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex and posterior parietal cortex, that are associated with self-referential processing.
