Chapter 4 - Neuroscience of the Self

Abstract

Advances in functional neuroimaging have allowed scientists to determine the neurophysiology of specific cerebral regions when individuals process information related to the self. This chapter reviews empirical studies indicating the right hemisphere is associated with neuropsychological processes specific to the self. Studies are reviewed demonstrating that the right hemisphere integrates sensory and mental experiences into a unified sense of self, and how this sense of self can be diminished and distorted. Additional studies are reviewed indicating that the right hemisphere processes information related to one’s own physical self (e.g., the face, body, and voice) and psychological self (e.g., mental skills and personality characteristics). Information is also presented that indicates advanced technologies (i.e., transcranial magnetic stimulation) can be used to excite or inhibit functioning of the right hemisphere, which is associated with altering the sense of the self. It is concluded that rather than conceptualizing the self as a stable entity, it is best to consider the self as integrated neuropsychological processes that create a “sense of self.”