Christensen, Wayne (2004) Self-directedness, integration and higher cognition. Language Sciences, 26 (6). pp. 661-692. doi:10.1016/j.langsci.2004.09.010

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Abstract

In this paper, I discuss connections between self-directedness, integration and higher cognition. I present a model of self-directedness as a basis for approaching higher cognition from a situated cognition perspective. According to this model increases in sensorimotor complexity create pressure for integrative higher order control and learning processes for acquiring information about the context in which action occurs. This generates complex articulated abstractive information processing, which forms the major basis for higher cognition. I present evidence that indicates that the same integrative characteristics found in lower cognitive process such as motor adaptation are present in a range of higher cognitive process, including conceptual learning. This account helps explain situated cognition phenomena in humans because the integrative processes by which the brain adapts to control interaction are relatively agnostic concerning the source of the structure participating in the process. Thus, from the perspective of the motor control system using a tool is not fundamentally different to simply controlling an arm.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Divisions:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Philosophy
Journal or Publication Title:	Language Sciences
Publisher:	Pergamon Press
ISSN:	0388-0001
Official Date:	November 2004
Dates:	Date Event November 2004 Published
Volume:	26
Number:	6
Page Range:	pp. 661-692
DOI:	10.1016/j.langsci.2004.09.010
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published

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