Introduction. Modelling natural action selection

T J Prescott, J J Bryson, A K Seth

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

47 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

Action selection is the task of resolving conflicts between competing behavioural alternatives. This theme issue is dedicated to advancing our understanding of the behavioural patterns and neural substrates supporting action selection in animals, including humans. The scope of problems investigated includes: ( i) whether biological action selection is optimal ( and, if so, what is optimized), ( ii) the neural substrates for action selection in the vertebrate brain, ( iii) the role of perceptual selection in decision- making, and ( iv) the interaction of group and individual action selection. A second aim of this issue is to advance methodological practice with respect to modelling natural action section. A wide variety of computational modelling techniques are therefore employed ranging from formal mathematical approaches through to computational neuroscience, connectionism and agent- based modelling. The research described has broad implications for both natural and artificial sciences. One example, highlighted here, is its application to medical science where models of the neural substrates for action selection are contributing to the understanding of brain disorders such as Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia and attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1521-1529
Number of pages9
JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B - Biological Sciences
Volume362
Issue number1485
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2007

Bibliographical note

ID number: ISI:000248887900001

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