Overlapping functional systems: A theory for vertebrate central nervous system function in terms of informal systems analysis

Self Cite

The general designations of neural systems and their levels of organization as presently applied in the neurosciences are described as being at variance with rigorous systems thinking. It is proposed that the rule-driven use of systems terminology and hierarchies would facilitate investigations of neural functioning in the natural case. General systems theory with its major propositions for hierarchical organization, open systems, and equifinality, is presented as providing the guidelines for developing systems-type theories for neuroscience investigations. General systems theory as metatheory is also used to evaluate hierarchies and systems designations in the neurosciences as these concepts are now applied in theories, models, and research. The metatheory is comprised of three sets of rules: the criteria for hierarchies; the properties of the open biological system; the criteria for the final conditions of open biological systems. The notion of the discovery of neural systems is contrasted with the apparent design of systems as frequently practiced by neuroscientists. The metatheory is summarized as directions for developing theories and as questions directed toward any neuroscience theory proposing levels of organization and systems.

Section: Neuroscience Framework In Transitionsupporting

confidence: 66%

Section: Miriam Legarementioning

confidence: 99%

The use of general systems theory as metatheory for developing and evaluating theories in the neurosciences

Legare

1987

Self Cite

“…Since contemporary psychological theorists attempt to avoid both the first or the last explanation of what guides human functioning, they focus on assumptions of integrative hierarchical control. But hierarchies can only be formulated in terms of how observational data are ordered (LeGare, 1980). That is, we cannot "see" higher control processes; such schemata are derived through the imposition of rules of orderliness which make sense of our observations (Le Gare, 1980).…”

Section: The Issue Of What Regulates the Systemmentioning

confidence: 98%

The self-organization of human psychological functioning

Kaplan¹,

Kaplan²

1991

This article describes the traditional model of human psychological functioning which dominates current theorizing, contrasts it with the new, emerging perspective of self-organizing processes, and applies this new approach to a theory of human psychological functioning. In the traditional model there is an assumption that processes of functioning are discretely different from physical structure. This assumption is shown to be intrinsic to a linear conceptual framework which implies that (a) stability of functioning derives from physical structure; (b) functioning is determined by the effects of enduring, antecedent components; (c) the environment can selectively influence structure; and (d) observational methods are capable of accessing and revealing processes of functioning. In the contrasting self-organizational perspective, structure and functioning are assumed to be given in one another at the level of organizational process. This formulation implies that as a system functions (a) its orderliness and stability are being determined by the ongoing functioning itself; (b) at the level or organizational functioning there are no antecedent structures separate from consequent activity; (c) systemic functioning exists as a unitary and continuous organizational process; and (d) organizational functioning cannot be instructed by environmental events. The work of Prigogine and of Maturana are examined as a basis for a theory of human psychological functioning as a self-organizing system. The theory that is proposed describes how attentional and experiential functioning evolve as a system of organizational continuity and coherence and how the process by which people recognize and identify their functioning secures this organizational functioning.

A systems model of schizophrenic dysfunction

Schmolling

1983

A review of pertinent literature suggests that central integrative, as opposed to peripheral, systems are primarily at fault in schizophrenia. More specifically, it is proposed that the central decision apparatus, defined as the subsystems which determine goals and end-states, is intermittently dysfunctional. This dysfunction, in turn, leads to a decoupling of the negative feedback system which normally aligns responses with the desired goal. The failure of these central systems is accompanied by an increase of diffuse activity within neural systems, semiautonomous activity on the part of subsystems, and a partial failure to regulate arousal systems. The paper closes with suggestions for future research in schizophrenia.