A framework of hierarchy for neural theory

Describes a framework of hierarchy within which representations of neural functions and data may be transformed from level to level. Within this framework, the function of a neural system may be abstracted above the primitive level so that it may be understood at arbitrary higher conceptual levels. The framework is natural to neural systems in that representations are completely distributed at each level of abstraction. Neural Compilation, the process by which a hierarchical specification of a neural system is implemented, is facilitated by ANNECS, a software tool. What is significant about this framework is that it enables one to comprehend neural systems at arbitrary levels of abstraction. As discussed, this ability is essential to be able to understand the operation of any nontrivial system and should aid analysis of neural systems by raising representations above the primitive level