Lecture by Samuel McClure ‘ Neuroeconomics: Cognitive and Neural Processes in Delay Discounting ’

On March 25, 2015 a lecture by Samuel McClure ‘Neuroeconomics: Cognitive and Neural Processes in Delay Discounting’ will take place at HSE. The event is organized by the Centre for Cognition & Decision Making.

Abstract: 

Delay discounting, expressed in preferences between outcomes available at different points in time, relates to a number of important life outcomes ranging from academic and professional success to impulsivity and addiction. Moreover, delay discount rates are known to covary with a number of inter- and intra-individual factors. In this talk, I will present work that we have done to understand the cognitive and neural processes that give rise to delay discounting and hence the dimensions along which delay discount rates vary.

Our findings identify distinct cognitive functions subsumed by mesolimbic reward structures (particularly the ventral striatum, vStr, and ventromedial prefrontal cortex, vmPFC) and the lateral prefrontal cortex (lPFC). I will review some evidence that these systems independently contribute to variability in delay discount rates. However, the vmPFC/vStr and lPFC should not be considered truly independent. I will conclude my talk with recent work identifying mechanisms by which the systems interact during the choice process. The nature of this interaction suggests a means by which lPFC may interact with value signals derived from vmPFC to implement a form of self-control.

Working language: English
Address: 26 Shabolovka Ulitsa, Building 3, Room 3230
Start time: 16:40

Everyone interested is welcome.

If you need a pass to HSE, please contact Anastasia Plotnikova: aplotnikova@hse.ru