Criticality and Robustness in Networks of Neurons*

Experimental evidence suggests that networks of neurons operate near a critical point, i.e., the boundary between an order-disorder phase transition. Criticality provides the order needed for coherent function while at the same time allowing the system the flexibility that is associated with the disordered state. Mathematical models of phase transitions in neuronal networks help us to identify features of the brain's wiring that are key for optimal information processing.