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Grounding Cognitive‐Level Processes in Behavior: The View From Dynamic Systems Theory
Author(s) -
Samuelson Larissa K.,
Jenkins Gavin W.,
Spencer John P.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
topics in cognitive science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.191
H-Index - 56
eISSN - 1756-8765
pISSN - 1756-8757
DOI - 10.1111/tops.12129
Subject(s) - cognition , cognitive science , perspective (graphical) , object (grammar) , psychology , field (mathematics) , cognitive psychology , cognitive systems , computer science , epistemology , artificial intelligence , neuroscience , mathematics , philosophy , pure mathematics
Marr's seminal work laid out a program of research by specifying key questions for cognitive science at different levels of analysis. Because dynamic systems theory ( DST ) focuses on time and interdependence of components, DST research programs come to very different conclusions regarding the nature of cognitive change. We review a specific DST approach to cognitive‐level processes: dynamic field theory ( DFT ). We review research applying DFT to several cognitive‐level processes: object permanence, naming hierarchical categories, and inferring intent, that demonstrate the difference in understanding of behavior and cognition that results from a DST perspective. These point to a central challenge for cognitive science research as defined by Marr—emergence. We argue that appreciating emergence raises questions about the utility of computational‐level analyses and opens the door to insights concerning the origin of novel forms of behavior and thought (e.g., a new chess strategy). We contend this is one of the most fundamental questions about cognition and behavior.