The brain never works with all neurons at the same time. It solves each problem by combining some of its neurons. Such distributed patterns of cells designed for obtaining a specific result for the whole body are called functional systems. Our entire brain resembles a giant Swiss penknife with thousands of such tools. The human mind and intellect are largely determined by the repertoire of its functional systems and the ability of each of them to find the optimal solution to their problem. Functional systems and their properties were discovered in the 30s of the last century by P. K. Anokhin, a student of I. P. Pavlov. He contrasted them with reflexes for which he was accused in 1950 at the famous Pavlovian session of betraying his teacher. The disputes whether the brain works on the principle of reflexes or functional systems are still ongoing.

Dancing Qualia

Functional Systems

Motion designer with love to generative sounds.

Functional Systems

D-Pulse