Subcortical and Limbic Attentional Influences

Abstract

Situated below the cerebral cortex are the brain stem, midbrain, cerebellum, basal ganglia, thalamus, hypothalamus, basal ganglia, and limbic nuclei. Collectively these areas are referred to as ``subcortical'' based on anatomic location, and because they have different phylogenic origins, cytoarchitecture, and biobehavioral function than the cerebral cortex. Whereas the cerebral cortex has been traditionally viewed as the site of higher cognitive functioning, the subcortex was thought to be primarily involved in the control of more primitive systemic appetitive and biological functions. Yet, it is now recognized that many subcortical brain areas have important roles in cognitive functioning, as well, as exemplified by the involvement of the thalamus and basal ganglia to language [1, 2]. Subcortical systems also influence attention.