Navigating the Neuroanatomy of Language

COEX 

So you think you know how many lobes the brain has? Responses vary between 4-6 lobes among anatomically educated individuals. This variation arises as the correct answer has changed with the evolution of anatomical terminology. This talk will dissect the current debates and their impact on wider society (e.g. Large Language Models are as confused as the scientific community) and cognitive neuroanatomy as a research field. The official nomenclature encompasses staggering 1933 anatomical terms exclusively dedicated to the nervous system. The sheer volume of terms contributes to the intricacy of anatomical language, frequently leading to differences of opinion and discussions. Examining these terms’ etymological roots and significance is crucial for gaining insight into these debates by comprehending their source and influence on our contemporary comprehension of cognitive neuroanatomy, with language serving as a particularly compelling illustration. The anatomy of language is controversial and remains constrained by its adherence to 19th-century models. In this digital age, where much research relies on atlases and automatic methods, it is valuable to reflect on our field's history, embrace recent advancements, and anticipate future challenges.