We start with the integration of action and perception, using a case study on frogs to show how brain analysis must bridge between function (schemas) and structures (brain regions, neurons, etc.). We then use a study of eye movements as controlled by the macaque brain to introduce the interaction of parietal cortex, frontal cortex, basal ganglia, superior colliculus and brainstem. A brief look at rat navigation brings the hippocampus into play. We then return to the monkey, modeling the visual control of hand movements, and the role of mirror neurons in their recognition. This grounds an exposition of the Mirror System Hypothesis for the evolution of the language-ready brain. The talk concludes with a brief look at the planning of sequences of actions, and the role of construction grammar within a model of the verbal description of visual scenes.

(Video registration of part 2 only)

Podcast interview (30min)