Neural Darwinism
Neural Darwinism
Neural Darwinism, also known as Neuronal Group Selection or Edelman's theory of neuronal group selection, is a theory of brain function proposed by Gerald Edelman, in 1978. The theory is grounded on the principles of Darwinian evolution, and it suggests that populations of neurons undergo a process of selection in forming circuits and connections during the development of the nervous system.
Pronunciation
Neural Darwinism: /ˈnʊərəl ˈdɑːrwɪnɪzəm/
Etymology
The term "Neural Darwinism" is derived from the words "neural", relating to a nerve or the nervous system, and "Darwinism", a theory of biological evolution developed by the English naturalist Charles Darwin, suggesting that species evolve over time through a process of natural selection.
Theory
Neural Darwinism proposes that the basic architecture of the brain is determined genetically, but the fine details are shaped by experience and activity. This theory is based on three main principles:
- Neural degeneracy: This principle suggests that different neuronal groups can respond similarly to a range of different inputs.
- Neural plasticity: This principle suggests that the connections between neurons can change, strengthening or weakening over time based on activity and experience.
- Neural competition: This principle suggests that only the neuronal groups and connections that are most successful in responding to inputs will be strengthened and survive, while others will weaken and may eventually disappear.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neural Darwinism
- Wikipedia's article - Neural Darwinism
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