Decisions, uncertainty, and the brain : the science of neuroeconomics
By: Glimcher, Paul W.
Publisher: Cambridge MIT Press 2003Description: xx, 375p.ISBN: 9780262572279.Subject(s): Reflexes | Brain -- Mathematical models | Cognitive neuroscience | Dualism | Microeconomics | NeuroeconomicsDDC classification: 153 | G498d Summary: In this provocative book, Paul Glimcher argues that economic theory may provide an alternative to the classical Cartesian model of the brain and behavior. Glimcher argues that Cartesian dualism operates from the false premise that the reflex is able to describe behavior in the real world that animals inhabit. A mathematically rich cognitive theory, he claims, could solve the most difficult problems that any environment could present, eliminating the need for dualism by eliminating the need for a reflex theory. Such a mathematically rigorous description of the neural processes that connect sensation and action, he explains, will have its roots in microeconomic theory. The economic theory allows physiologists to define both the optimal course of action that an animal might select and a mathematical route by which that optimal solution can be derived. Glimcher outlines what an economics-based cognitive model might look like and how one would begin to test it empirically. Along the way, he presents a fascinating history of neuroscience. He also discusses related questions about determinism, free will, and the stochastic nature of complex behavior.Item type | Current location | Collection | Call number | Status | Date due | Barcode | Item holds |
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PK Kelkar Library, IIT Kanpur | General Stacks | 153 G498d (Browse shelf) | Available | A185721 |
Browsing PK Kelkar Library, IIT Kanpur Shelves , Collection code: General Stacks Close shelf browser
153 F913C COGNITIVE SCIENCE | 153 G171M THE MIND'S NEW SCIENCE | 153 G259c5 Cognitive neuroscience [5th ed.] | 153 G498d Decisions, uncertainty, and the brain | 153 G553S THE STRUCTURE OF INTELLIGENCE | 153 G578c Cognitive psychology | 153 G791C CONSCIOUSNESS |
A Bradford Book
In this provocative book, Paul Glimcher argues that economic theory may provide an alternative to the classical Cartesian model of the brain and behavior. Glimcher argues that Cartesian dualism operates from the false premise that the reflex is able to describe behavior in the real world that animals inhabit. A mathematically rich cognitive theory, he claims, could solve the most difficult problems that any environment could present, eliminating the need for dualism by eliminating the need for a reflex theory. Such a mathematically rigorous description of the neural processes that connect sensation and action, he explains, will have its roots in microeconomic theory. The economic theory allows physiologists to define both the optimal course of action that an animal might select and a mathematical route by which that optimal solution can be derived. Glimcher outlines what an economics-based cognitive model might look like and how one would begin to test it empirically. Along the way, he presents a fascinating history of neuroscience. He also discusses related questions about determinism, free will, and the stochastic nature of complex behavior.
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