Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Random activation refers to the spontaneous firing of neurons in the brain without any specific purpose or intention. It is a theory that suggests dreams are a result of this random neural activity.
Related terms
Activation-synthesis theory: This theory proposes that dreams are created as a result of our brains trying to make sense of random neural activity during sleep.
Neuronal firing: Neuronal firing refers to the action potentials generated by neurons when they transmit electrical signals.
Neural network: A neural network is a complex interconnected system of neurons that work together to process and transmit information in the brain.