Cognitive Neuroscience

Question 1

What is cognitive neuroscience?

Answer 1

Studies the influence of brain structures on mental processes, seen as a “marriage” between cog + bio approach

Question 2

Which case studies led to emergence of cognitive neuroscience?

Answer 2

-Phineas Gage = iron rod blasted through head, personality underwent many changes
* Paul Broca, 1861* = after stroke could only say his own name, déficit names Brocas aphasia + found to be due to damage in the frontal lobe (Brocas area) which was found to control language
Carl Wernicke = Left temporal lobe named Wernicke’s area; Wernickes aphasia affected language comprehension so found to control understanding language

Question 3

What are possible applications of cognitive neuroscience?

Answer 3

~ use of scanning / imaging techniques can lead to treatment for memory problems
~ use of computer modelling or simulations to test theories or hypotheses about mental processes