Society for Neuroscience 2025, San Diego, 11.19.2025

Special Lecture: Deep Decisions: Uncovering the Subcortical Role in Perceptual
Choice — Michele A. Basso

Abstract: Understanding of how the mammalian brain makes decisions centers largely on the
integrative functions of the cerebral cortex. Yet organisms lacking a cerebral cortex can combine
information from different sources to make decisions. This lecture will focus on the roles of the
superior colliculus and basal ganglia in perceptual decision-making. The emerging view is that
deep brain structures play a critical role in flexible, goal-directed choices and cognitive control