The Organization of Action

by Gallistel; C.R.

• ISBN13: 9780898590098
• ISBN10: 0898590094
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1982-12-01
• Publisher: Lawrence Erlbau

Summary

A synthesis of classic and modern neurobehavioral literature dealing with the principles by which complex, purposive, and intelligent behavior is generated, this book features: * papers by C.S. Sherrington, E. von Holst, D.M. Wilson, G. Fraenkel, H. Mittelstaedt, and P. Weiss * clear descriptions of three types of elementary units of behavior -- the reflex, the oscillator, and the servomechanism * a review of the diverse manifestations of hierarchical structure in the neural mechanisms underlying coordinated action. This volume has proven to be of great value to psychologists, neurobiologists, and philosophers interested in the problem of action and how it may be approached in light of modern neurobehavioral research. It has been designed for use as a supplemental text in courses in physiological psychology, neurobiology and behavior, and those courses in cognitive and developmental psychology that place particular emphasis on understanding how complex behavior patterns are implemented.

Table of Contents

Preface	p. xi
Introduction and Overview: De Anima and Animals	p. 1
The Sherringtonian Reflex	p. 16
Introductory--Coordination of the Simple Reflex	p. 17
Sherrington's Combinatorial Principles	p. 51
Von Holst's Coupled Oscillators	p. 69
On the Nature of Order in the Central Nervous System	p. 81
Insect Walking	p. 116
On Geotaxis and Phototaxis in Littorina	p. 150
The Reafference Principle (interaction Between the Central Nervous System and the Periphery)	p. 177
Self-Differentiation of the Basic Patterns of Coordination	p. 218
Manifestations of Hierarchical Organization in Action	p. 288
Central Motive States	p. 320
Representation of the World and the Organization of Action	p. 335
Some Recent Trends	p. 360
Glossary	p. 395
References	p. 403
Author Index	p. 421
Subject Index	p. 427
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