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A core brain system in intelligent behaviour
17 Jun 2011
Conférences/Débats
présenté par le Professeur John Duncan, MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, Cambridge, UK.
A core brain system in intelligent behaviour In human fMRI studies, a common or multiple-demand (MD) pattern of frontal and
parietal activity is associated with diverse cognitive demands, and with standard tests of fluid intelligence. In complex
behaviour, goals are achieved by assembling a series of sub-tasks, creating structured mental programs. Behavioural,
neuropsychological and fMRI data suggest a key role for MD cortex in defining and controlling the parts of such programs,
providing a neurophysiological basis for intelligent thought and action. I shall discuss how fluid intelligence contributes to
deficits in “executive function” after frontal lobe damage; the role of fluid intelligence in “goal neglect” when new behaviour is
constructed; and the activity of MD cortex as a complex sequence of goal-directed behaviour unfolds.
A 11h30
Salle des Thèses
5è étage du Bâtiment Jacob
45, rue des Saints Pères, Paris 6e