Abstract

In this paper, we propose that information maximization can provide a unified framework for understanding saccadic eyemovements. In this framework, the mutual information among the cortical representations of the retinal image, the priors constructed from our long term visual experience, and a dynamic short-term internal representation constructed from recent saccades provides a map for guiding eyenavigation. By directing the eyes to locations of maximum complexity in neuronal ensemble responses at each step, the automatic saccadic eyemovement system greedily collects information about the external world, while modifying the neural representations in the process. This framework attempts to connect several psychological phenomena, such as pop-out and inhibition of return, to long term visual experience and short term working memory. It also provides an interesting perspectiveon contextual computation and formation of neural representation in the visual system. 1

Citations