The short-term dynamics within a network of connections is creative

Citation

Phillips W (2003) The short-term dynamics within a network of connections is creative. Commentary on: Ruchkin, D., Grafman, J., Cameron, K., & Berndt, R. (2003). Working memory retention systems: A state of activated long-term memory. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 26(6), 709-728. doi:10.1017/S0140525X03000165. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 26 (6), pp. 752-753. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0140525X03480163

Abstract
Although visual long-term memory (VLTM) and visual short-term memory (VSTM) can be distinguished from each other (and from visual sensory storage [SS]), they are embodied within the same modality-specific brain regions, but in very different ways: VLTM as patterns of connectivity and VSTM as patterns of activity. Perception and VSTM do not "activate" VLTM. They use VLTM to create novel patterns of activity relevant to novel circumstances.

Journal
Behavioral and Brain Sciences: Volume 26, Issue 6