The Prefrontal Cortex

Stacey A. Bedwell

doi:10.1017/9781009407946.004

3 - The Prefrontal Cortex

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 14 November 2025

Stacey A. Bedwell

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Stacey A. Bedwell: Affiliation:
King’s College London

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Summary

Long assumed to have no real function, we now understand the importance of the prefrontal cortex for a wide range of cognitive functions, including decision-making. Some of the earliest understanding of the role of the prefrontal cortex came from the famous case study of Phineas Gage. Through a mining accident, Gage’s prefrontal cortex was extensively damaged. He showed no observable impairments in motor, sensory or memory skills. He however did show marked differences in personality and planning. Over the following decades, research built upon understanding of the role of the prefrontal cortex. Today, the prefrontal cortex as a region is recognised across many species and is considered the most evolutionarily advanced in humans. The current consensus is that prefrontal cortex is an integration area, integrating information from all over the brain.

Keywords

prefrontal cortex frontal lobe Phineas Gage lobotomy evolution anatomy function.

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Type: Chapter
Information: Cognitive Neuroscience of Decision-Making , pp. 22 - 37

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009407946.004 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2025

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