Integrative Modeling and the Role of Neural Constraints

doi:10.1086/687854

Paper

Integrative Modeling and the Role of Neural Constraints

Published Nov 16, 2016 · DOI · D. Weiskopf

Philosophy of Science

23

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1

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Abstract

Neuroscience constrains psychology, but stating these constraints with precision is not simple. Here I consider whether mechanistic analysis provides a useful way to integrate models of cognitive and neural structure. Recent evidence suggests that cognitive systems map onto overlapping, distributed networks of brain regions. These highly entangled networks often depart from stereotypical mechanistic behaviors. While this casts doubt on the prospects for classical mechanistic integration of psychology and neuroscience, I argue that it does not impugn a realistic interpretation of either type of model. Cognitive and neural models may depict different, but equally real, causal structures within the mind/brain.

Study Snapshot

Integrating psychology and neuroscience may be challenging due to the complexity of cognitive systems and brain networks, but both models still depict equally real causal structures within the mind/brain.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Integrative Modeling and the Role of Neural Constraints

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