Attention is complex: causes and effects.

Olivier A Coubard

doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00246

Olivier A Coubard

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https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00246

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Recently, Krauzlis et al. (2014) introduced a framework in which attention arises from value-based decision-making mechanisms centered on basal ganglia. Appropriate decision-making is made by identifying the current “state” of the animal and its environment. Defining a state requires interpreting different sources of information from the subject's internal and external world, knowledge and needs. The authors provide evidence from physiology, neuroanatomy, clinical studies and modeling. Here I re-examine this framework in the light of the following keys that help understand a cognitive function: its architecture and neural correlates, its process and mechanisms, its theory and metaphors. The component of attention described by Krauzlis et al. arises as a functional consequence of basal ganglia activity, suggesting that it may be treated as an effect not a cause (Krauzlis et al., 2014).

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Krauzlis et al (2014) introduced a framework in which attention arises from value-based decision-making mechanisms centered on basal ganglia
The component of attention described by Krauzlis et al arises as a functional consequence of basal ganglia activity, suggesting that it may be treated as an effect not a cause (Krauzlis et al, 2014)
Vigilance has been associated with the activity of brainstem reticular formation and diffuse thalamic substance (Robbins, 1997; Coull, 1998; Paus, 2000); selection with that of cortical— parietal—and subcortical areas (Snow et al, 2009; Lovejoy and Krauzlis, 2010; Capotosto et al, 2013); and control with that of cortical— prefrontal—and subcortical areas (Desimone et al, 1990; Knight et al, 1995; Stuss, 2006)

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Introduction

Krauzlis et al (2014) introduced a framework in which attention arises from value-based decision-making mechanisms centered on basal ganglia. A Commentary on Attention as an effect not a cause by Krauzlis, R. I re-examine this framework in the light of the following keys that help understand a cognitive function: its architecture and neural correlates, its process and mechanisms, its theory and metaphors.

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