Neural Processing: Perception and the Human Brain

• The human brain is a complex structure that processes information for interaction, decision-making, and memory formation.
• Neural networks and mechanisms ensure processing efficiency across stages like perception, attention, learning, and memory.

The Basics of Neural Processing

• Neurons are specialized cells that transmit electrical and chemical signals.
• The brain contains about 86 billion neurons.
• Neurons communicate through synapses using neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate.
• Neural processing involves sensory input, encoding, transmission, interpretation, and response.
• Sensory input: External information enters via sensory organs.
• Encoding: Sensory data converts to neural signals.
• Transmission: Neurons relay signals through electrical impulses.
• Interpretation: The brain assigns meaning to information.
• Response: The brain generates a reaction (movement, thought, emotion).

Perception: The First Stage of Processing

• Sensory receptors detect stimuli (light, sound, touch, taste, smell).
• Stimuli are transmitted to the brain through pathways.
• Visual Processing:
  • The retina captures light.
  • Signals are sent to the occipital lobe.
• Auditory Processing:
  • The cochlea converts sound waves to neural signals.
  • Signals are sent to the temporal lobe.
• Somatosensory Processing:
  • The skin detects pressure, pain, and temperature.
  • Information is processed in the parietal lobe.
• Olfactory Processing:
  • The nose detects chemical molecules.
  • Information is processed in the olfactory bulb.
• Gustatory Processing:
  • Taste buds send signals.
  • Signals are sent to the gustatory cortex.
• Sensory inputs are processed and integrated for coherent perception.

Attention and Filtering Information

• Selective attention is used to focus on relevant information due to the brain being bombarded with large quantities of information.
• The reticular activating system (RAS) helps determine which stimuli should receive attention.
• Selective Attention: Focus on a single stimulus.
• Divided Attention: Processing multiple inputs simultaneously.
• Sustained Attention: Maintaining focus over a period.
• Executive Attention: Controlling and directing cognitive resources.

Learning and Memory Formation

• Learning: Acquiring new information.
• Memory: Retention and retrieval of information.
• The hippocampus encodes new memories.
• The prefrontal cortex stores and retrieves memories.
• Memory Types:
  • Sensory Memory: Brief storage.
  • Short-term Memory: Temporary retention.
  • Long-term Memory: Lasting storage.
  • Procedural Memory: Skills-based.
  • Declarative Memory: Facts and events.
• Memory formation:
  • Encoding: Information converts to neural code.
  • Storage: Information consolidates into long-term memory.
  • Retrieval: Stored information accesses when needed.

Decision-Making and Problem-Solving

• The prefrontal cortex handles higher cognitive functions like decision-making like evaluating options, considering consequences, and applying logic for choices.
• Emotions: The limbic system affects choices.
• Past Experiences: Memory guides decisions.
• Cognitive Biases: Psychological tendencies influence judgments.
• Neurotransmitters: Dopamine affects motivation.

The Role of the Subconscious Mind

• A significant portion of brain activity occurs subconsciously.
• The subconscious mind processes information without conscious awareness, influencing behavior, habits, and emotions.
• The brain continues to process info during sleep, aiding problem-solving and memory consolidation.
• The brain processes information dynamically through neural networks.
• Sophisticated biological and cognitive mechanisms help perception, learning, and decision-making to ensure survival and adaptation.