Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences
June 1, 2026
David V Smith, Dominic S. Fareri, Ekaterina Dobryakova
The default mode network (DMN) has been central to cognitive neuroscience research for over two decades, yet understanding of its contribution to decision-making remains incomplete. This review synthesizes recent evidence demonstrating that the DMN directly supports subjective valuation and value-based decision-making. Anatomically and functionally, core DMN regions-including the ventromedial...
Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences
February 1, 2026
Devayani Joshi, Alexa Tompary, Aaron Kucyi
The default mode network (DMN) is a distributed set of brain regions engaged during wakeful rest. Spontaneous thoughts - internally directed mental experiences that arise with relative freedom and few constraints on their content or transitions - are ubiquitous during wakeful rest. Spontaneous memory reactivation - neural events in which recently learned information is reinstated - also occurs...
Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences
June 1, 2025
Georg Northoff, Andrea Buccellato, Bianca Ventura
The default mode network (DMN) exhibits distinct dynamic and topographic features relative to the brain’s other networks, yet their link to consciousness remains unclear. We review both neural (DMN-based topography and dynamics) and mental (experience of time speed, mental time travel, and self-non-self) findings across diverse nonordinary states of consciousness, including reduced (anesthesia,...
Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences
May 9, 2024
Olivia Gosseries, Nolwenn Marie, Yannick Lafon et al.
16 citations
This review provides an exploration of trance states, covering their phenomenology, neural mechanisms, and clinical uses. Trance states, present in diverse cultural contexts from shamanic practices to modern adaptations, have recently captured the interest of researchers and clinicians. Here, we delve into the phenomenological aspects of trance experiences, highlighting the most common...