Concept formation as a computational cognitive process

Hippocampus and entorhinal cortex form cognitive maps that represent relations among memories within a multidimensional space. While these relational maps have long been proposed to contribute to episodic memory, recent work suggests that they also support concept formation by representing relevant features for discriminating among related concepts. Cognitive maps may be refined by medial prefrontal cortex, which selects dimensions to represent based on their behavioral relevance. Hippocampal pattern completion, which is critical for retrieval of episodic memories, may also contribute to generalization of existing concepts to new exemplars. Navigation within hippocampal cognitive maps, which is guided by grid coding in entorhinal cortex, may contribute to imagination through recombination of event elements or concept features.

Automated summary

The hippocampus and entorhinal cortex form cognitive maps representing relations among memories in a multidimensional space. These maps contribute to both episodic memory and concept formation. The medial prefrontal cortex refines cognitive maps based on behavioral relevance, while hippocampal pattern completion aids in memory retrieval and concept generalization. Navigation within these cognitive maps, guided by grid coding in the entorhinal cortex, may enhance imagination by recombining event elements or concept features.