Question

Define what is meant by the characterization "input-output signaling machines" as applied to neurons. Discuss the extent to which this applies accurately, or at least usefully, to the operation of the nervous system?

Answer 1

Answer:

A neuron receives stimuli consisting of the response of  thousands of neurons. Synapse is the signals entering the neuron  via junctions called. The role of  the synapses are to modulate the signal strength and  determine the input signal is either excitatory,  promoting the neuron to fire, or inhibitory, tending to  prevent the neuron from firing. At the axon hillock the  neuron integrates the inputs and if this total is excitatory  then the neuron fires. Although this brief description  leaves out much of the complexity, it is still remarkable  that out of this web of electrochemical firing units,  emerges our very conscious.