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The Reinforcement Learning Theory, Value Function, and the Nature of Value Function Calculation by the Insular Cortex

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Advances in Neural Computation, Machine Learning, and Cognitive Research VI (NEUROINFORMATICS 2022)

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Abstract

The Reinforcement Learning theory is a powerful tool for building recognition systems. This theory has long been used in the construction of computational models of neural networks of the brain. However, the validity of its use for these purposes is not unequivocally recognized. One of the reasons for this is the significant differences between the variables used in the theory and the characteristics of the brain that determine behavioral choice. In this paper, the possibility of applying the theory of reinforcement learning for modeling the process of behavioral choice is evaluated. It is argued that insular cortex may be considered displaying state value of RL theory. Such an attempt turns out to be useful, as it allows us to formulate new questions concerning the way control structures interact and the nature of control in the brain, which in turn will allow us to make further progress in understanding the mechanisms of its work.

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Funding

The research was done within the 2022 state task FNEF-2022-0003 Research into Neuromorphic Big-Data Processing Systems and Technologies of Their Creation.

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Correspondence to I. A. Smirnitskaya .

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Smirnitskaya, I.A. (2023). The Reinforcement Learning Theory, Value Function, and the Nature of Value Function Calculation by the Insular Cortex. In: Kryzhanovsky, B., Dunin-Barkowski, W., Redko, V., Tiumentsev, Y. (eds) Advances in Neural Computation, Machine Learning, and Cognitive Research VI. NEUROINFORMATICS 2022. Studies in Computational Intelligence, vol 1064. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-19032-2_25

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