Logic, Language and the Brain

Logic, Language and the Brain

Abstract
What is the role of language in human cognition? Within the domain of
deductive reasoning, the issue has been the focus of numerous investigations
without the emergence of a consensus view. Here we consider some of the rea-
sons why neuroimaging studies of deductive reasoning have generated mixed
results. We then review recent evidence suggesting that the role of lan-
guage in deductive reasoning is con ned to an initial stage in which verbally
presented information is encoded as non-verbal representations. These rep-
resentations are then manipulated by mental operations that are not based
on the neural mechanisms of natural language.
Keywords: deductive reasoning, natural language, functional neuroimaging
 

The Cerebal Cortex

The Cerebral Cortex

General Organization
The cerebral cortex is the outer covering of gray matter over the hemispheres. This is typically 2- 3 mm thick, covering the gyri and sulci. Certain cortical regions have somewhat simpler functions, termed the primary cortices. These include areas directly receiving sensory input (vision, hearing, somatic sensation) or directly involved in production of limb or eye movements. The association cortices subserve more complex functions. Regions of association cortex are adjacent to the primary cortices and include much of the rostral part of the frontal lobes also regions encompassing areas of the posterior parietal lobe, the temporal lobe and the anterior part of the occipital lobes. These areas are important in more complex cortical functions including memory, language,