Computational neuroscientists rely on simplification when they make their models. But what is the right level of simplification?
When should we, for example, use a biophysically detailed model and when a simplified abstract model when modelling neural dynamics? What are the problems of simplifying too much, or too little?
This was the topic of the panel discussion between a science philosopher (Mazviita Chirimuuta), author of the recent book “The Brain Abstracted”, and an experienced modeler (Terrence Sejnowski) at the FENS Regional Meeting in Oslo in June 2025.
Links:
- M. Chirimuuta: “The Brain Abstracted – Simplification in the History and Philosophy of Neuroscience”, MIT Press (2024) pdf
- P.S. Churchland & T.J. Sejnowski: “The Computational Brain”, MIT Press (1992)
- Level figure taken from “The Computational Brain” (Fig. 1.4)
- Profile of Mazviita Chirimuuta
- Home page of Terrence Sejnowski
The podcast was recorded on June 28th, 2025 and lasts 1 hour and 24 minutes.
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