Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026
05:48
The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients
Published on: June 12, 2020
Thinking is believing
1National Institute of Advanced Study, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore, India. rkasturi@gmail.com
Progress in Brain Research
|January 2, 2008
Summary
Thinking is fundamentally believing, challenging the view of thought as purely rational. This perspective requires new computational and mathematical models beyond traditional logic for understanding the mind.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Philosophy of Mind
- Epistemology
Background:
- Beliefs are often viewed as psychological states with questionable epistemic value.
- Thinking and reasoning are traditionally considered rational, rule-governed activities.
- Computational models of the mind primarily focus on rule-based reasoning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To challenge the classical model of thought as rational.
- To propose that thinking is fundamentally constituted by believing.
- To explore the implications of this view for epistemic concepts and computational modeling.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of beliefs and thinking.
- Philosophical argumentation.
- Critique of traditional computational and logical models of thought.
Main Results:
- The classical model of thought as rational is argued to be mistaken.
- Thinking is proposed to be fundamentally a form of believing.
- This reframing necessitates a re-evaluation of epistemic concepts like truth and justification.
Conclusions:
- Thinking should be reconceptualized as believing, not as purely rational reasoning.
- The traditional logic-based approach to computational modeling of thought is inadequate.
- New mathematical frameworks are needed to model thought processes effectively.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Critical Thinking
Critical thinking involves reflective and productive thinking and the evaluation of evidence. Critical thinkers seek to understand the deeper meaning of ideas, question assumptions, and make independent decisions about what to believe or do. Scientists, for instance, are often critical thinkers. Critical thinking also requires humility about what we know and don't know and the motivation to look beyond the obvious. It is essential for effective problem-solving.
Colleges and universities are...
Colleges and universities are...
01:29Magical Thinking
Magical thinking encompasses the belief in assumptions that defy logical reasoning yet appear intuitively convincing. It is a common psychological phenomenon that persists across various cultural and individual contexts. While these assumptions contradict empirical evidence and scientific laws, they often serve meaningful psychological roles in promoting emotional resilience and a sense of control, especially under stress or uncertainty.Thought-Action Fusion and the Law of SimilarityA key...
01:25Critical Thinking II
Critical thinking is a cognitive process with several attributes. The attributes of critical thinking include the following:
01:25Creative Thinking
Creative thinking encompasses innovative and unconventional methods for addressing challenges, often leading to groundbreaking solutions. Instead of focusing solely on enhancing existing systems, such as increasing smartphone battery capacity, creative thinking might inspire advancements like energy-efficient batteries or processors that minimize power consumption. This multidimensional approach underscores the importance of exploring novel pathways to innovation.
Divergent thinking is the...
Divergent thinking is the...
01:19Counterfactual Thinking
Counterfactual thinking is a cognitive process wherein individuals mentally reconstruct alternative versions of past events, often beginning with “what if” or “if only.” This reflective mechanism plays a significant role in shaping emotional experiences and guiding future behavior. Though typically triggered by unfavorable or unexpected outcomes, counterfactual thinking can also emerge in mundane, everyday decisions and experiences, revealing its deep entrenchment in human cognition.Types of...
01:25Beck's Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive therapy is a psychological approach designed to address distortions in thinking, which can lead to negative emotions and unrealistic beliefs. These cognitive distortions often influence how individuals interpret and respond to situations, exacerbating emotional distress. Below are some prevalent cognitive distortions, their characteristics, and examples of how they manifest in thought processes.
Arbitrary Inference
Arbitrary inference involves making conclusions without sufficient...
Arbitrary Inference
Arbitrary inference involves making conclusions without sufficient...