Neuron thresholds reduce instantaneous below-threshold input to 0 and set instantaneous above-threshold input to 1. Thresholds differentiate regions by establishing boundaries {analog to digital conversion and mental space}.
Brain can compare outgoing (inner) and incoming (outer) signals, which differ. Inner signals have loops and loop patterns and include memories and imaginings. Outer signals have non-looping patterns and include stimuli. Nervous system builds a boundary {boundary and mental space} between inner (self) and outer (other). Boundary is at nervous-system edges. Waking and dreaming rebuild the boundary.
To trigger a neuron impulse, membrane potential, caused by input neuron impulses, must be greater than neuron threshold potential. Neuron threshold potentials establish inequalities. Lower potential has no effect. Higher potentials cause one impulse. (Higher potentials over time cause higher impulse rate.) Inequalities establish boundaries {inequalities and boundaries}. At space boundaries, one region has response above threshold, and adjacent region has response below threshold. (Neuron thresholds can change.)
Adjacent neurons can inhibit central neuron. Such lateral inhibition reduces central-neuron activity. Lateral inhibition can contract regions {lateral inhibition and spatial regions}. Lateral inhibition can move boundaries inwards. Lateral inhibition can suppress and eliminate boundaries. Spreading activation and lateral inhibition can join or separate regions.
Central neuron can excite adjacent neurons. Such spreading activation increases adjacent-neuron activity. Spreading activation can expand regions {spreading activation and spatial regions} {spreading excitation and spatial regions}. Spreading activation can move boundaries outwards. Spreading activation can establish and emphasize boundaries. Spreading activation and lateral inhibition can join or separate regions.
1-Consciousness-Speculations-Space-Biology
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Date Modified: 2022.0225