Spikes, Decisions, and Actions

The nervous system of higher animals is both very complex and very non-linear. Nervous systems are constantly making decisions between alternative actions, and switching gears among dynamical modes. This book is an exploration of the mathematical principles by which brains generate neural spikes, make decisions, store memories, and control actions. There are several neural phenomena that can be modelled to great effect through the application of non-linear dynamics, including ionic currents, action potentials, short-term memory, and motor activity. Assuming only a basic knowledge of mathematics, and including problem sets and simulations on disk, this is a useful text for courses in neuronal modelling in particular, and mathematical modelling in biology generally.