The Face of Controversy

Neuroscientists have long puzzled over whether our brains process and represent information according to modules (precise brain areas respond to separate and specific stimuli) or in a distributed fashion (different brain areas cooperate to represent the same stimulus). In an enlightening Perspective, Cohen and Tong discuss two fascinating neuroimaging studies that identify areas of the human brain that represent the perception of human faces and other parts of the human body (Downing et al., Haxby et al.). As the Perspective authors explain, one group invokes modularity and the other group invokes distributed representation to explain their results, raising the debate about modularity versus distributed representation to new heights. Full Article online

Dr. Gordon Sherman Explains How Neuroscience Helps Demystify Dyslexia

Why do controversy and confusion often surround dyslexia? Partly because the work of the researchers, educators, and evaluators concerned with dyslexia often rests on inference — inferred assumptions about normal and atypical brain development and function.

Historically, to investigate the structure and neurophysiological function of brains, neuroscientists rely on the examination of brains obtained at autopsy or on studies of patients during neurosurgery. To understand learning and learning disabilities, clinicians and educators rely on closely observed behavior patterns. Scientists, clinicians, and educators study neural tissue or behaviors to infer what the brains of their patients, subjects, or students actually do in normal living and learning conditions.

The case for supporting the Dalai Lama's appearance has been made, with an online petition supporting the invitation of the Buddhist religious leader. The new petition has been by neuroscientist and autism researcher Matthew Belmonte.