The anterior cingulate cortex: reward-guided action selection and the value of actions

This chapter examines the contribution of the ventral and medial prefrontal regions of the brain, particularly the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), in the optimal evaluation of cost-benefit decisions. The findings suggest that though the ACC may register when actions lead to errors, its function is not error detection per se. The results also indicate that ACC is critical for a representation of the average value of the reward that is based not just on the last trial but on the recent history of reinforcement associated with the action, and for integrating the benefits and effort costs associated with an action.