tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7083730.post115766655238027048..comments2023-06-02T17:54:44.641+02:00Comments on Connaissances: Memory BabeJonathan Wonhamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09862200571016427320noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7083730.post-1158791163652532342006-09-21T00:26:00.000+02:002006-09-21T00:26:00.000+02:00Thanks for your comment Clare. I wonder if the fac...Thanks for your comment Clare. I wonder if the fact that the current metaphor for the working of the brain is 'networks' merely represents the fact that networked computers are the technological state of the art. Maybe one day this metaphor will seem as outdated as a wax tablet does to us today. What about a field full of grasshoppers chirruping as a metaphor for the working of the brain? Or a flock of starlings such as <A HREF="http://epod.usra.edu/archive/epodviewer.php3?oid=309856" REL="nofollow">these</A>. The sound shapes or visual shapes so formed could easily represent thoughts could they not?Jonathan Wonhamhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09862200571016427320noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7083730.post-1158408585841846032006-09-16T14:09:00.000+02:002006-09-16T14:09:00.000+02:00Very interesting post, Jonathan (as usual!). Ther...Very interesting post, Jonathan (as usual!). There were some metaphors used to describe the process of one idea displacing the other - one was overwriting - going with the wax tablet idea. <BR/><BR/>Since I have been on my week away I think (but am not entirely sure, I need to learn more) that the current thinking is that neurons store an idea by making networks. An idea is formed by making a network in one part of the brain, then stored in other areas according to whether it is a short or long term memory. Since these networks are constantly in a state of flux a new idea may override (or overwrite or displace) the old idea.<BR/><BR/>Memories are strengthened as the links between the neurons are increased and short cuts are made. I suppose these shortcuts could introduce myths as you say.<BR/><BR/>That is my understanding so far, but I am going to find out more. It is a fascinating topic. Thatnk you for your questions, Jonathan, it has made me think things through some more.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com