The region of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions is known as the cerebral cortex. This part of the brain is divided into various lobes, each associated with different functions such as reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, and sensory perception. The cerebral cortex plays a key role in integrating information from various senses, allowing for complex thought processes and voluntary movement. It is essential for tasks like language, memory, and consciousness, making it a central focus of research in neuroscience and psychology.