Reverse Inference
Definition: Reverse inference is a method of drawing conclusions about cognitive processes from an observed brain activation. An example of reverse inference would be claiming ‘brain area X is active, therefore these participants are engaged in cognitive process Y’. One should be cautious drawing such a conclusion as a brain region can be responsible for multiple processes.
Alternative definition:
Synonym: Abductive reasoning
References: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2005.12.004https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conb.2008.07.006
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11229-022-03585-2
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2011.11.001
Related terms: Forward inference