Mass-action Principle (Noun)
Meaning
(neurology) the principle that the cortex of the brain operates as a coordinated system with large masses of neural tissue involved in all complex functioning.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- According to the mass-action principle, even a small amount of localized brain damage can have far-reaching consequences on cognitive function.
- The mass-action principle has implications for how we understand the neural basis of complex behaviors such as language and spatial reasoning.
- Neuroimaging techniques have provided evidence for the mass-action principle by showing that large networks of brain areas are activated during tasks that require attention and executive control.
- Studies of patients with focal brain lesions have challenged the mass-action principle by demonstrating that highly localized damage can sometimes produce relatively specific cognitive deficits.
- The mass-action principle has been influential in the development of cognitive rehabilitation strategies that aim to engage large networks of brain areas through intensive practice and training.