Working Memory Is Complex and Dynamic, Like Your Thoughts
Name
jocn_a_01940.pdf
Description
Published version
Size
386 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
4526ab2660200cd66085b08a7e395be5
Author(s)
Buschman, Timothy J
Miller, Earl K
Date Issued
December 1, 2022
Journal
Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience
Publisher
MIT Press
Citation
Buschman, Timothy J and Miller, Earl K. 2022. "Working Memory Is Complex and Dynamic, Like Your Thoughts." Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 35 (1).
Version
Original manuscript
Abstract
Abstract
Working memory is where thoughts are held and manipulated. For many years, the dominant model was that working memory relied on steady-state neural dynamics. A neural representation was activated and then held in that state. However, as often happens, the more we examine working memory (especially with new technology), the more complex it looks. Recent discoveries show that working memory involves multiple mechanisms, including discontinuous bouts of spiking. Memories are also dynamic, evolving in a task-dependent manner. Cortical rhythms may control those dynamics, thereby endowing top–down “executive” control over our thoughts.
Working memory is where thoughts are held and manipulated. For many years, the dominant model was that working memory relied on steady-state neural dynamics. A neural representation was activated and then held in that state. However, as often happens, the more we examine working memory (especially with new technology), the more complex it looks. Recent discoveries show that working memory involves multiple mechanisms, including discontinuous bouts of spiking. Memories are also dynamic, evolving in a task-dependent manner. Cortical rhythms may control those dynamics, thereby endowing top–down “executive” control over our thoughts.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences
Terms of Use
Article is made available in accordance with the publisher's policy and may be subject to US copyright law. Please refer to the publisher's site for terms of use.
Persistent DSpace Link
DOI of Published Version
https://doi.org/10.1162/jocn_a_01940
