V1 as an egocentric cognitive map.
Neuroscience of Consciousness January 1, 2021 Paul Linton
The primary visual cortex (V1) is typically regarded as an egocentric perceptual map, while the hippocampus is seen as an allocentric cognitive map. This article argues that V1 also functions as a post-perceptual egocentric cognitive map, with three well-documented functions—estimation of distance, estimation of size, and multisensory integration—better understood as cognitive inferences. This implies that V1 must serve as the neural correlate of the visual perception/cognition distinction, which can be accommodated by its laminar structure. The authors propose a low-level account of visual consciousness, contrasting with mid-level and higher-level accounts, and argue that equating visibility with detection thresholds is a mistake.