认知视角下的大脑模块性与可塑性

A Cognitive Interpretation of Modularity and Plasticity of the Brain

大脑模块性是认知科学领域的基本假设之一。大脑模块可以分为神经模块和心智模块两个层面,二者在信息加工的竞争中因为属性契合而形成对应关系。有人认为模块性就意味着静态结构,并用大脑可塑性质疑其模块性。本文旨在证明大脑既是模块化的又是可塑的,并从大脑的进化、个体大脑发展以及模块间的关联三个角度讨论模块性和可塑性之间的互利关系。正因为大脑兼具模块性和可塑性才能实现延续与进化、稳定与发展之间的平衡,优化大脑高效性与适应性。

Modularity of the brain is one of the most fundamental assumptions in cognitive science. Brain modules are assumedto consist of neural modules and mental modules. The two types of modules with corresponding properties gradually correlate toeach other through information processing competitions. Some researchers argue that modularity means static structure andchallenge this conceptualization with brain＇ s plasticity. This paper attempts to argue that the brain is both modular and plas-tic, and that modularity is the reciprocal of plasticity from the perspectives of brain evolution, individual brain developmentand connectivity of the brain modules. Coexistence of modularity and plasticity is significant to balancing continuity with evolu-tion, and stability with development, and to optimizing efficiency and adaptability of the brain.