Multiple Neural Circuits in Value-Based Decision-Making

Abstract

Valuation is an essential function in decision-making. To understand the nature of the distinct neural systems used in such valuation, we performed monkey single-unit recording experiments and a human fMRI experiment using (1) a perceptual discrimination task with asymmetric reward, and (2) a reward inference task. The results suggest that both the primate and human brain have, at least, two distinct valuation systems: one in the nigro-striatal circuit (the stimulus-based valuation system) and the other in the PFC circuit (the knowledge-based valuation system). We propose that the stimulus-based valuation system calculates values based on the empirical and probabilistic relation between an event and its outcome. The knowledge-based valuation system generates values by further extension of directly-experienced association through categorical processes and rules, thereby enabling animals to predict the outcome of an inexperienced event.