The brain is the home of complex processes such as memory, language and attention. Neuroscientists have long believed that these higher-order functions are associated with distinct areas in the brain. But no single area in the brain is responsible for any one of these processes. Usually, they require the integrated action of several brain areas.
Attention
Different sensory systems send information to those areas of the cortex that specialize in that particular sensory system. These areas interpret the sensory information that the person is receiving. For example, the visual cortex receives information about the colors and location of certain objects and interprets that the person is seeing a dog. It is impossible for anyone to learn or remember something unless he has paid attention to it first. Brain areas such as the prefrontal cortex determine what kind of information should be focused on at any given moment.
Memory and Learning
Memory and learning are controlled by several brain areas. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for short-term memory, such as keeping a phone number in mind while dialing it. The hippocampus is responsible for forming new memories. The reason people cannot remember their first few years of life is likely the slow maturation rate of this brain area. Learning changes the function and structure of brain cells, or neurons. It also affects the amount and speed of neurotransmitter release. Neurotransmitters are chemicals used in communication between neurons.
Executive Functions
Executive functions such as planning, problem-solving and reasoning are typically associated with the frontal cortex. Several patient groups, such as people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or Alzheimer's disease, have difficulties with these functions. Executive functions typically mature slowly.
Language
Language is mainly processed in the left hemisphere of the cortex. There are two major language areas in the brain: Wernicke's area, which is in the temporal lobe and processes speech; and Broca's area, which is in the frontal cortex and produces speech. The right hemisphere controls the intonation in speech. It also processes indirect requests and sarcasm.
Emotions
The limbic system processes emotions in the brain. The hypothalamus, the hippocampus and the amygdala are part of it. The amygdala is responsible for anger and aggression. Animals that have had their amygdala removed do not appear to feel fear. When this area is stimulated, the animal typically reacts with aggression. The hypothalamus controls temperature, hunger, aggressive behavior and sexual satisfaction. The hippocampus is responsible for building new memories.
References
- BrainMind.com: Right Hemisphere Language
- Brain Center America: Brain Function -- Selective Attention
- Canadian Institute of Neurosciences: Brocas's Area, Wernicke's Area and Other Language-Processing Areas in the Brain
- Shippensburg University: The Emotional Nervous System; Dr. C. George Boeree
- University of Florida's AlzOnline.Net: Executive Function
