In their recent article in TiCS, Vigotsky and colleagues [1] raise several critiques questioning the scientific and practical value of fMRI-based decoders. Most seriously, they argue that existing neural decoding methods inherently lack scientific validity due to the presence of nonspecific signals that confound the processes of interest. While they provide a valuable service by highlighting the insufficient attention paid to validity tests of decoding models, their statement that ‘decoding models cannot disentangle neural mechanisms from their epiphenomena’ represents an assumption rather than a fact and overlooks important ongoing efforts to identify and mitigate validity threats in decoding models.
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Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.
