The Forebrain

Right above the midbrain, in the center of the brain, lies the thalamus,

which is the center of sensory processing. All incoming sensory information,

except for the sense of smell, goes to the thalamus first before it is sent

on to the cerebral cortex and other areas of the brain. Anterior to and

slightly below the thalamus is the hypothalamus. Hypothalamic activity is involved

in numerous motivated behaviors such as eating, drinking, sexual activity,

temperature regulation, and aggression. Its activity occurs largely

through its regulation of the pituitary gland, which is beneath the hypothalamus.

The pituitary gland controls the release of hormones that circulate in

the endocrine system.