The Mind within the Net: Models of Learning, Thinking, and Acting

Manfred Spitzer

ISBN 10: 0262692368 / ISBN 13: 9780262692366

Published by MIT Press, 1999

About this Item

Abnutzung / Risse - leicht. This engaging, non-mathematical introduction to neural networks explores how these computer models enhance our understanding of perception, thought, emotion, and action. It delves into the workings of the brain, examining how billions of neurons generate ideas and sensations, and why learning speeds vary with age. By employing computer models, scientists gain insights into human experiences, including learning, creativity, and mental health. The author illustrates how these models can reshape our perspectives on education, aging, politics, and mental disorders.The book is structured in three parts: the first presents the foundational theory of neural networks and their operational mechanisms. The second discusses the principles of network functioning and the implications of computer simulations for our comprehension of brain processes. The third part highlights applications of network models in areas like knowledge representation, language, and mental disorders such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease, offering fresh insights into both typical and atypical mental states. The author concludes by reflecting on the broader implications of neural networks for neuropsychology and human nature, emphasizing their transformative potential in understanding the mind.

Seller Inventory # b9686954-bba5-41ec-96a6-abafa8c77d01

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Mind within the Net: Models of Learning, Thinking, and Acting
• Publisher: MIT Press
• Publication Date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0262692368
• ISBN 13: 9780262692366
• Binding: Softcover
• Condition: Fine
• Seller catalogs:
  • Psychology

About this title

Synopsis

A highly readable, non-mathematical introduction to neural networks―computer models that help us to understand how we perceive, think, feel, and act.

How does the brain work? How do billions of neurons bring about ideas, sensations, emotions, and actions? Why do children learn faster than elderly people? What can go wrong in perception, thinking, learning, and acting? Scientists now use computer models to help us to understand the most private and human experiences. In The Mind Within the Net, Manfred Spitzer shows how these models can fundamentally change how we think about learning, creativity, thinking, and acting, as well as such matters as schools, retirement homes, politics, and mental disorders.

Neurophysiology has told us a lot about how neurons work; neural network theory is about how neurons work together to process information. In this highly readable book, Spitzer provides a basic, nonmathematical introduction to neural networks and their clinical applications. Part I explains the fundamental theory of neural networks and how neural network models work. Part II covers the principles of network functioning and how computer simulations of neural networks have profound consequences for our understanding of how the brain works. Part III covers applications of network models (e.g., to knowledge representation, language, and mental disorders such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease) that shed new light on normal and abnormal states of mind. Finally, Spitzer concludes with his thoughts on the ramifications of neural networks for the understanding of neuropsychology and human nature.

Review

Seductive on-screen views of brain activity open up a closed realm by rendering the mind visible. A new enlightenment beckons. A new stupidity, too, a new confusion of the moral and mechanical, if we don't listen carefully to sane and discriminating voices like Spitzer's.

--Daily Telegraph

Spitzer... has written a highly readable introduction to 'traditional' neural-net models....

--Nature