A model for neutral elements provided a way to represent noise elements in the Estes and Burke choice theory. A recruitment model for choice behavior assumes that processing a stimulus involves the recruiting of elements by alternative response counters until a criterion number is reached and the corresponding response is evoked.
2. Early experiments of attention in response time experiments.
Stimulus processing is biased by relative frequency of presentation, by incentive value, and by inserting an informative cue into a trial.
3. Studies of automaticity.
Measurement of automatic processing. A theory of automaticity in reading with S.J. Samuels. A theory of automaticity in perception.
4. Measuring the spread of attention in visual space.
5. Shifting attention by sense modality and across visual space.
A brain scan study of the human pulvinar during sustained selective attention with Monte Buchsbaum. A neural network simulation study of thalamic circuit operations in selective attention.
7. Development of a test for preparatory attention to location with Eric Sieroff, and tests of patients.
8. Development of a cortex-wide circuit theory of attention:
The Triangular Circuit of Attention,.
9. Development of an apical dendrite theory of cognition, attention, and consciousness.
A series of papers explored the hypothesis that the apical dendrite is not "just another dendrite" but has its own special functions.
The hypothesis that the apical dendrite resonates was illustrated informally by LaBerge and his daughter, Anne La Berge in three performances of a work entitled Resonant Dendrites,, which featured film, narrative voice samples and music.
A formal description of a theory ofelectric resonance in apical dendrites appeared in an article by Kasevich & LaBerge, which shows how an apical dendrite can fine tune its own membrane oscillations to a specific peak frequency, and narrow the width of the resonance curve around this peak to less than 1 Hz. This refinement enables its associated cortical circuit to generate a specific resonant frequency by which the circuit can separate its signaling from that of other circuits.
A more recent article by LaBerge & Kasevich describes signaling by neurons as the neural correlate of objective information processing and resonating in clusters of apical dendrites as the neural correlate of subjective impressions. These two "articles provide theoretical support for the hypothesis that apical dendrite resonance supplements neural signaling as a major mode of neural function. Furthermore, the resonance-based subjective impressions may be regarded as the contents of consciousness.
Life
His major extracurricular activity was to serve for 21 years as Music Director and Conductor of the Minnesota Bach Society Orchestra and Chorus from 1959 to 1980. He is currently director of the 50-voice South Sound Classical Choir in the Tacoma, WA area. He resides in Tacoma, Washington with his wife Janice Lawry.
