David Poeppel, researcher studying auditory cognition, speech perception, language, and music at NYU, returns to discuss the mysteries of memory storage, the language of thought hypothesis, and the pace of scientific progress in understanding the brain. They explore the challenges of studying memory, the implementation requirements for language processing, and the potential combination of symbolic computation and dynamics in the brain. They also delve into the downside of unprincipled data mining and the re-emergence of the language of thought hypothesis in cognitive organization.
Unraveling the mystery of memory is crucial in neuroscience research, as it forms the foundation for understanding cognition and the brain.
The debate surrounding memory storage between neurons and within neurons is a fundamental question in neuroscience that requires resolution.
The concept of the 'language of thought' explores the neural basis of language and the systematic rules that govern our thoughts.
Deep dives
The importance of understanding memory in neuroscience
The podcast episode emphasizes the significance of unraveling the mystery of memory in the field of neuroscience. It highlights how memory forms a foundational aspect of cognitive and neuroscience research, regardless of the specific area of focus. It urges the need to go beyond correlation and regression in scientific inquiry and delves into the intricacies of memory storage and retrieval. The episode discusses how individual researchers are grappling with the complexities of memory and highlights the reexamination of long-held assumptions in the field.
The challenges in understanding memory storage
The podcast delves into the debate surrounding memory storage in the brain. It describes the discussion between David Glansman and David Pupill about the traditional belief that memory is stored between neurons versus the alternative theory that memory is stored within neurons. The episode emphasizes the significance of resolving this fundamental question in neuroscience and discusses the challenges posed by synaptic mechanisms and long-term storage. It also explores the need for a comprehensive understanding of memory and the importance of developing mechanistic explanations.
The role of language in understanding memory
The podcast episode touches upon the relationship between language and memory. It describes David Pupill's work on auditory cognition, speech perception, language, and music. The discussion revolves around the concept of the language of thought, which goes beyond linguistic aspects and focuses on the orderly structure and rules that govern our thoughts. The episode also explores the neural basis of language and how neuroscience research can contribute to understanding the language of thought at a neural level.
The importance of critical thinking and deep analysis
The podcast underscores the significance of critical thinking and profound analysis in the study of brains and minds. It highlights the need to challenge existing assumptions and theories in order to gain deeper insights into complex topics like memory. The episode provides a reminder that the field of neuroscience requires continuous exploration, critical evaluation, and the integration of diverse perspectives to advance our understanding of the brain and its functioning.
The Importance of Funding Basic Research
The podcast discusses the importance of funding basic research, specifically highlighting the Max Planck society in Germany as a great example. The Max Planck society provides public funding for pure basic research, allowing researchers to follow their curiosity without the pressure of immediate practical outcomes. While some argue that funding should be focused on more applied research, the podcast emphasizes the value of investing in basic research for long-term progress and potential game-changing discoveries.
The Language of Thought
The podcast touches on the concept of the 'language of thought,' which posits that thinking involves abstract, symbolic computations. The language of thought theory was prominent in the past but fell out of favor in neuroscience due to perceived implementation challenges. However, the podcast suggests a resurgence of interest in this theory, discussing recent reviews and research that provide evidence for its potential validity. The podcast emphasizes the need to explore the relationship between language, thought, and cognition and suggests that the language of thought may provide insights into how cognitive processes are organized in the brain.
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David runs his lab at NYU, where they stud`y auditory cognition, speech perception, language, and music. On the heels of the episode with David Glanzman, we discuss the ongoing mystery regarding how memory works, how to study and think about brains and minds, and the reemergence (perhaps) of the language of thought hypothesis.
0:00 - Intro
11:17 - Across levels
14:598 - Nature of memory
24:12 - Using the right tools for the right question
35:46 - LLMs, what they need, how they've shaped David's thoughts
44:55 - Across levels
54:07 - Speed of progress
1:02:21 - Neuroethology and mental illness - patreon
1:24:42 - Language of Thought
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