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Autopoiesis and cognition.
1CREA, Ecole Polytechnique, 1 rue Descartes, 75005 Paris, France. bourgine@poly.polytechnique.fr
Artificial Life
|July 13, 2004
Summary
This study models autopoiesis using a 3D automaton, defining it as a self-producing network. It clarifies that autopoiesis and cognition are related but distinct, with living systems being both.
Area of Science:
- Theoretical Biology
- Complex Systems Science
- Mathematical Biology
Background:
- Autopoiesis describes self-maintaining systems.
- Cognition involves sensory input triggering actions for viability.
- The relationship between autopoiesis, cognition, and life requires clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To mathematically model autopoiesis.
- To propose refined definitions for autopoiesis and cognition.
- To explore the distinctions and connections between autopoiesis and cognition.
Main Methods:
- Development of a mathematical model of a 3D tesselation automaton.
- Formulation of a modified definition of autopoiesis.
- Proposal of a new definition for cognition.
Main Results:
- Autopoietic systems can be viewed as random dynamical systems within their domain.
- A novel definition of autopoiesis emphasizes self-production and boundary regulation.
- A definition of cognition links sensory input to viability-constrained actions.
- Autopoiesis and cognition are distinct but related concepts.
- Living systems are characterized as simultaneously autopoietic and cognitive.
Conclusions:
- Autopoiesis and cognition are not identical but share boundary regulation.
- A system can be autopoietic without being cognitive, and vice versa.
- The integration of autopoiesis and cognition defines living systems.