the concept that specific parts of the cerebral cortex are relatively specialized for particular types of cognitive and behavioral processes. Also called cortical localization.

What is an example of localization of function?

Localization of function refers to the fact that different parts of the brain are responsible for different functions. For example, the hippocampus helps turn short-term memories into long-term memories and the amygdala plays an important role in the fear response.

Where did the idea of the localization of function originate?

Theories of localization first gained scientific credence in the 1860s with Paul Broca's discovery that damage to a specific part of the brain—the left frontal lobe—was associated with speech impairment.