Chapter 8 - Prefrontal Cortex in Decision-Making: The Perception–Action Cycle

Abstract

The neural mechanisms of decision-making are understandable only in the structural and dynamic context of the perception–action (PA) cycle. The PA cycle is the biocybernetic processing of information that adapts the organism to its environment. That circular processing involves a variety of neural structures at several hierarchical levels, though with close functional interactions between them. At its lowest level, the PA cycle is largely reflex and automatic, and involves the vegetative and visceral structures of the hypothalamus and the autonomic nervous system. At intermediate levels, the cycle involves limbic structures supporting its emotional and value-assessing mechanisms. At the cortical level, under the commanding role of the prefrontal cortex, the PA cycle incorporates prefrontal cognitive components. The posterior cortex contributes to decision-making mainly information from perceptual memory and knowledge; the frontal cortex contributes mainly executive memory and knowledge. Its prefrontal sector contributes to decision-making predictive and preadaptive control through its top–down executive functions—especially attentional set, working memory, monitoring, and inhibitory control.