Working Memory Is Complex and Dynamic, Like Your Thoughts

AUTHORS

Buschman TJ , Miller EK , . Journal of cognitive neuroscience. 2022 10 29; (). 1-7

PMID: 36322832 [PubMed].

ABSTRACT

Working memory is where thoughts are held and manipulated. For many years, the dominant model was that working memory relied on steady-state neural dynamics. A neural representation was activated and then held in that state. However, as often happens, the more we examine working memory (especially with new technology), the more complex it looks. Recent discoveries show working memory involves multiple mechanisms, including discontinuous bouts of spiking. Memories are also dynamic, evolving in a task-dependent manner. Cortical rhythms may control those dynamics, thereby endowing top-down “executive” control over our thoughts.

Tags: alumni publications 2022