cell assembly

a group of neurons that are repeatedly active at the same time and develop as a single functional unit, which may become active when any of its constituent neurons is stimulated. This enables, for example, a person to form a complete mental image of an object when only a portion is visible or to recall a memory from a partial cue. Cell assembly is influential in biological theories of learning and memory. [proposed in 1949 by Donald O. Hebb]

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Psychology term of the day

November 16th 2024

electrotonus

n. the change in the excitability, conductivity, or electrical status of a nerve or muscle following application of an electric current.