The amygdala is a part of a system of structures that regulate emotions and behaviors, called the limbic system. The amygdala itself is responsible for integrating emotions, behavior, motivation, and fear. In fact, historically it was considered to be the fear center of the brain. Our understanding of the amygdala has broadened over the years. We now understand that just as sensory nerves map to specific areas of the sensory cortex, they also map to specific portions of the amygdala.