I’ve come to call this set of circuits—from mirror neurons to subcortical regions, back up to the middle prefrontal areas—the “resonance circuits.” This is the pathway that connects

two possibilities. One calls for actual neural projections from the “affect complex” to the “posterior sensory set” and vice versa. The other possibility calls for approximate simultaneity of activations in the two sets, resulting in the production of a time-based ensemble. In either option, the ultimate realization of a conscious mind depends on b

The default mode network (DMN) is now believed to be where the neurological basis for the self is housed.

The amygdala, part of the emotional centre of the brain, is constantly filtering signals and stimulating a response. It’s preparing us to react or respond, to flee when we’re threatened or empathise when we’re emotionally engaged. Neurotransmitters help us to process positive and negative stimuli and prioritise our responses accordingly. When we se