The mosaic structure of the mammalian cognitive map

Jeffery, K. J. (2024) The mosaic structure of the mammalian cognitive map. Learning and Behavior, (doi: 10.3758/s13420-023-00618-9) (PMID:38231426) (Early Online Publication)

Abstract

The cognitive map, proposed by Tolman in the 1940s, is a hypothetical internal representation of space constructed by the brain to enable an animal to undertake flexible spatial behaviors such as navigation. The subsequent discovery of place cells in the hippocampus of rats suggested that such a map-like representation does exist, and also provided a tool with which to explore its properties. Single-neuron studies in rodents conducted in small singular spaces have suggested that the map is founded on a metric framework, preserving distances and directions in an abstract representational format. An open question is whether this metric structure pertains over extended, often complexly structured real-world space. The data reviewed here suggest that this is not the case. The emerging picture is that instead of being a single, unified construct, the map is a mosaic of fragments that are heterogeneous, variably metric, multiply scaled, and sometimes laid on top of each other. Important organizing factors within and between fragments include boundaries, context, compass direction, and gravity. The map functions not to provide a comprehensive and precise rendering of the environment but rather to support adaptive behavior, tailored to the species and situation.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Early Online Publication
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Jeffery, Professor Kate
• Authors: Jeffery, K. J.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Psychology & Neuroscience
• Journal Name: Learning and Behavior
• Publisher: Springer
• ISSN: 1543-4494
• ISSN (Online): 1543-4508
• Published Online: 17 January 2024
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2024 The Author
• First Published: First published in Learning and Behavior 2024
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License