Do human brains recognize names and pronouns the same way? study finds
The research shows that the same neurons, called "concept cells," are activated when we hear someone's name or pronouns like "he," "she," or "they."
In a recent study, neuroscientists have uncovered fascinating insights into how human brains connect names and pronouns to specific individuals. The research shows that the same neurons, called “concept cells,” are activated when we hear someone’s name or pronouns like “he,” “she,” or “they.” These concept cells are responsible for storing information related to people, objects, or abstract concepts, helping our brain recognize and recall familiar individuals when we hear their name or see their image.
The study found that concept cells get activated not only when a person sees a picture or hears the name of someone specific, but also when pronouns are used to refer to that person. For instance, if someone is introduced to a person or a character, their brain cells will respond in a similar way when that person is mentioned later through pronouns.
How was the study conducted?
This groundbreaking study was conducted using brain recordings from patients with intractable epilepsy. These patients had electrodes implanted deep inside their hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for memory and recognition. The electrodes were initially placed to locate the source of the patients’ seizures, but they also gave scientists the unique opportunity to study how individual neurons function during wakeful activities.
The participants in the study were shown a picture of the animated character Shrek. A specific neuron in the hippocampus was activated when the photo was shown. The same neuron reacted when participants read a sentence that mentioned Shrek’s name or referred to him with the pronoun “he.” However, when the pronoun “she” was used, that neuron remained inactive, indicating that these concept cells specifically link to individual representations.
What did the study find?
The study revealed that concept cells are vital in connecting the brain to information about people, both through names and pronouns. When a sentence referred to Shrek, such as “he put on sunglasses,” the same neurons updated the brain’s representation of Shrek with the new details. This connection between language and mental imagery helps us predict future actions or appearances of the person being discussed.
The research also tested how people respond to sentences involving two characters sharing the same pronoun. It was observed that the person who triggered the most activity in the brain was more likely to be identified with the pronoun later in the sentence. This suggests that the brain has an internal preference for one character over another based on neuron activity.
The neuroscientists concluded that their study offers a deeper understanding of how the brain processes and updates information about people in real time. It opens the door for further research on how the brain handles complex language, memory, and storytelling.
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