Preface and Dedication

1. Toward a Universal Theory of Brain Arousal

What Is to Be Explained? Ethology and the Mechanisms of Arousal

Operational Definition of Arousal

A Quantitative Approach to Physical Measurement of Generalized Arousal

The Neurobiology of Arousal Constitutes an Interesting Application of Information Theory

Claims for This Chapter and Introduction to Chapters Following

2. Anatomy Is Not Destiny, but a Little Neuroanatomy Helps

Multiplicity and Redundancy of Ascending Arousal Pathways Prevent Failure

Primitive "Master Cells" in the Brainstem Provide a Neuroanatomic Core that Theoretically Matches the Behavioral Data

Long-Distance Lines Tuning Local Modules

Summary and Hypothetical Implications for Human Behavior

3. Arousal Is Signaled by Electrical Discharges in a System of Nerve Cells

Traveling Up the Brainstem

Special Cases: Olfaction and Vision

Informational Content Governs Amplitude of Response in Neurons Related to Arousal

Cerebral Cortex, the EEG

Electrical Activity in Three Arousal-Related Biological Systems

4. Autonomic Nervous System Changes Supporting Arousal; the Unity of the Body

Patterns of Autonomic Responses

Reformulations

A High Information System Shows Coordination sans Correlation

Supporting Hormone-Dependent Behaviors

Summary

5. Genes Whose Neurochemical Products Support Arousal

Genes Associated with Classical Systems

Genes Newly Recognized

Concepts and Questions

Summary

6. Heightened States of Arousal: Sex Compared to Fear

Sex Behavior's CNS Mechanisms Require Arousal

Generalized Arousal Affects Specific Arousals and Vice Versa

Contrast Sex and Fear

Applicability of Information Theory

Libido and Stress in Humans

Summary

7. Major Systems Questions about Brain Arousal Networks

What Are Universal Operating Features of Arousal Systems?

How Do We Meet the Requirement for Rapid Changes of CNS State?

Sensitivity and Alacrity of Response, Yet Stability? How?

Does Automata Theory Apply?

Questions in the Time Domain

Questions about Spatial Properties

Thermodynamics, Information Theory, and Questions for the CNS

How Does a Sine Wave Impact a Sawtooth?

Unity from Diversity?

8. Summary and Practical Importance: From Biological Mechanisms to Health Applications

Main Points

Applications to Human Conditions

Works Cited

Acknowledgments

Index