Are topographic maps fundamental to sensory processing?

Topographic organization of primary sensory cortex is a thoroughly documented phenomenon that provides a valuable tool for experimental neuroscience, However, its functional significance remains uncertain. It is not possible on the basis of evidence now available to determine whether topography is relevant primarily to neuronal processing, or instead to some aspect of development or ''housekeeping.'' The popular view that topography holds the key to understanding cortical function has little experimental basis, and may have misled inquiry into the basis of sensory processing. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Inc.