The cerebral cortex is a thin layer of gray matter which completely covers the telencephalon and is responsible for directing skeletal muscle movement, receiving sensory information from both inside and outside the body, and integrating sensorimotor activity. It also stores and processes memory, initiates and coordinates learning and all higher cognitive functions, and mediates such phenomena as love, hate, joy, appreciation, etc. Here, we will examine only the sensory and motor roles of the cortex.

Subcortical clusters of gray matter called basal nuclei are also important in coordinating muscle movement and motor control. In this respect, they cooperate with the cerebral cortex, the cerebellum, and the brain stem in bringing about coordinated and perfectly timed movements when a purposeful motor act is required. Here, we will examine these nuclei and the manner in which they are incorporated into the motor control system.