Localization of Function

Localization of function is the idea that specific brain regions support specific cognitive functions.

Why believe functions are localized?

Damage area X, lose function X. Lesion studies and brain stimulation map deficits onto regions.

Phrenology (Franz Gall) was wrong in method but historically pushed the idea of localization. It was a pseudoscience claiming personality and intellect could be read from skull bumps.

Classic evidence comes from Broca’s Area and Wernicke’s Area, where specific damage maps to specific language deficits. Double Dissociation is the methodological gold standard for showing two functions are genuinely separate.