Neurobiology of Agency: “Conatograms” and the Ghost in the Machine?

Abstract

Our objective in this volume was to present an accessible, axiomatic, and functional conception of human agency and its relevance as a focused topic for further exploration in psychology. This part in particular was devoted to addressing the neurobiology of agency. As such, our contributors examined agency broadly in animals as a process that developed evolutionarily with increased neural complexity, eventually to the point of consciousness and will in humans. Unfortunately, over time agency has had various operational definitions. The intent of this chapter is to synthesize and integrate some of the more salient points from our contributors and relate their suggestions to additional empirical evidence, where appropriate. Including the neurobiology in this volume was an essential requirement for full consideration of agency. From the neuroscience perspective, scientists seek an elusive “conatogram” within the recesses of the brain as the neural correlates or representations of agency, much in the same way as Lashley started seeking the “engram” for memory in the 1920s. Alternatively, others believe the evidence demonstrates that there is no ghost in the machine and that consciousness and will are illusions. Regarding agency, the empirical and theoretical considerations addressed suggest that “agency” is not a singular concept and use of the terminology requires some differentiation. However, the commentators conclude that agency provides a useful concept for consideration of behavior produced by animals. The commentators express hope that we can use the axioms and propositions discussed for further critical analysis and research into the topic.

DISCLAIMER: The views presented in this manuscript are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the positions of the funding agencies, the United States Military Academy, the Department of the Army, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.