Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience (Jun 2014)

Enlarging the scope: grasping brain complexity

  • Emmanuelle eTognoli,
  • J. A. Scott eKelso,
  • J. A. Scott eKelso

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnsys.2014.00122
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8

Abstract

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To further advance our understanding of the brain, new concepts and theories are needed. In particular, the ability of the brain to create information flows must be reconciled with its propensity for synchronization and mass action. The theoretical and empirical framework of Coordination Dynamics, a key aspect of which is metastability, are presented as a starting point to study the interplay of integrative and segregative tendencies that are expressed in space and time during the normal course of brain and behavioral function. Some recent shifts in perspective are emphasized, that may ultimately lead to a better understanding of brain complexity.

Keywords