Neural Basis of Semantic Memory

The advent of modern investigative techniques to explore brain function has led to major advances in understanding the neural organization and mechanisms associated with semantic memory. This book presents current theories by leading experts in the field on how the human nervous system stores and recalls memory of objects, actions, words and events. Chapters range from models of a specific domain or memory system (e.g., lexical-semantic, sensorimotor, emotion) to multiple modality accounts; from encompassing memory representations, to processing modules, to network structures, focusing on studies of both normal individuals and those with brain disease. Recent advances in neuro-exploratory techniques allow for investigation of semantic memory mechanisms noninvasively in both normal healthy individuals and patients with diffuse or focal brain damage. This has resulted in a significant increase in findings relevant to the localization and mechanistic function of brain regions engaged in semantic memory, leading to the neural models included here.

A collection of leading models of how the human brain encodes for the memory of the items that surround us.

Doody Review Services

Reviewer:Christopher J. Graver, PhD(Madigan Army Medical Center)
Description:Semantic memory provides us with a means of storing information about words, objects, actions, and other concepts. We have learned a tremendous amount as a result of noninvasive techniques to study the brain and this book focuses on the neuroanatomical localization of semantic memory, as well as semantic memory systems throughout the brain.
Purpose:The intent is to provide a cutting-edge resource on the neuroanatomical explorations of semantic memory in the brain through the study of both normal individuals and those with brain disease.
Audience:A variety of readers will likely find this book of interest, from cognitive neuroscientists to neurologists to neuropsychologists. Students of these disciplines will also find it valuable, especially at the graduate level. The contributing authors are well established scholars in the field.
Features:Several major sections cover lesion studies, electrophysiology, roles of subcortical nuclei, and conceptual models. Chapters begin with an introductory statement and end with a concluding statement. Some chapters are more technical than others (e.g., electrophysiology) and require a basic foundation in the area to fully comprehend the information. There is a balance of clinically related topics (e.g., lesion studies and semantic memory in schizophrenia) and more basic science topics (e.g., ERP studies). The final chapter ties together these ideas into a compelling hybrid neural model of semantic memory. A few of the later chapters contain crisp color figures of functional neuroimaging results. Whereas some chapters are replete with these instructive figures and illustrations, others are remarkably devoid of nonverbal information. The index is excellent for quick referencing.
Assessment:This well written book not only surveys the current literature, but also brings it together into an integrated model of semantic memory. It is conveyed at a reasonable level for researchers and clinicians, and would be a fine course book in a graduate level neuroscience class, with the exception of a few lackluster sections.

John Hart was born and raised in North Carolina. For a time he practiced criminal defense law, but left his practice to write The King of Lies and work for a major Wall Street firm. John used to do foolish things, like fly helicopters and sail small boats across large oceans. Now, with two young daughters and a wife whom he loves, he writes books, which is harder but safer. John still makes his home in North Carolina.