1. A method for simulating the operation of a neuron comprising: (a) monitoring a plurality of inputs corresponding to external stimuli for the neuron; (b) producing, upon the occurrence of a stimulus on one of said inputs a corresponding synaptic value signal; (c) adding said synaptic value to a storage means to thereby accumulate a generator value in said storage means; (d) generating a neuron output signal if said accumulated generator value exceeds a threshold value; (e) continuously changing said accumulated generator value toward a resting value; (f) measuring a predetermined time interval following the occurrence of said stimulus; (g) increasing the magnitude of said corresponding synaptic value from a first level to a second level if said neuron output signal is generated within said predetermined time interval; (h) continuously decreasing the magnitude of said synaptic value from said second level back toward said first level until the magnitude of said synaptic value equals said first level; and (i) selectively supplying a fixer signal to stop the decrease in magnitude of said synaptic value, whereby if said fixer signal occurs before said magnitude has reached said first level, said magnitude will be permanently increased.