Animal Learning and Cognition

In this advanced text the author, starting with the simple assumption that psychological associations are represented by the strength of synaptic connections, provides several mechanistic descriptions of complex cognitive behaviors. Part I presents neural network theories of classical conditioning, Part II describes neural networks of operant conditioning, and animal communication, Part III discusses spatial and cognitive mapping, and finally Part IV shows how neural network models permit one to simultaneously develop psychological theories and models of the brain. The book includes computer software that allows the computer simulation of classical conditioning and the effect of different brain lesions on many classical paradigms. All those people interested in neural networks, from psychologists, through neuroscientists to computer scientists working on artificial intelligence and robotics, will find this book an excellent advanced guide to the subject.

Spis treści:
Preface and acknowledgements
Introduction
1. Neural networks and associative learning
Part I
2. Classical conditioning, data and theories
3. Classical conditioning and cognitive mapping
4. Attentional processes
5. Storage and retrieval processes
6. Configural processes
7. Timing
Part II
8. Operant conditioning and animal communication, data theories and networks
Part III
9. Animal cognition, data and theories
10. Place learning and spatial navigation
11. Maze learning and cognitive mapping
Part IV
12. Learning, cognition and the hippocampus, data and theories
13. Hippocampal modulation of learning and cognition
Conclusion
14. The character of the psychological law
Companion diskette
References
Glossary
Author index
Subject index.