Philosophy for the rest of cognitive science

Top Cogn Sci. 2011 Apr;3(2):425-37. doi: 10.1111/j.1756-8765.2011.01143.x.

Abstract

Cognitive science has always included multiple methodologies and theoretical commitments. The philosophy of cognitive science should embrace, or at least acknowledge, this diversity. Bechtel's (2009a) proposed philosophy of cognitive science, however, applies only to representationalist and mechanist cognitive science, ignoring the substantial minority of dynamically oriented cognitive scientists. As an example of nonrepresentational, dynamical cognitive science, we describe strong anticipation as a model for circadian systems (Stepp & Turvey, 2009). We then propose a philosophy of science appropriate to nonrepresentational, dynamical cognitive science.

Keywords: Dynamical systems; Explanation; Mechanism; Philosophy of science; Representation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Circadian Rhythm / physiology
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Cognitive Science*
  • Humans
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Philosophy*