A Reply to Uttal (2004)

In his article, Uttal (2004) lays forth several, rightly justified, caveats in the pursuit of elucidating the neural basis of higher cognitive functions using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Adding to the onslaught of criticism from cellular physiologists, Uttal's central tenet is that the increased utilization of this new technology may be "ill advised," and should be replaced with more effort and time being directed towards a "revitalized behaviorism." Although we agree with many of Uttal's views, we contend that it is not the methodology of fMRI itself but the application of fMRI to unravel more intangible cognitive phenomena that is ill advised. Specifically, we believe that Uttal has mistakenly disregarded the potential role that fMRI research could make in the advancement of behavioral science.