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Evolutionary neurology, responsive equilibrium, and the moral brain.
Grant Gillett1, Elizabeth Franz1
1University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Consciousness and Cognition
|December 3, 2014
Summary
Moral reasoning emerges from integrating sensory-motor processes in the brain, involving complex cognitive functions across various neural areas. This evolutionary neurology perspective highlights how the brain processes information to guide moral behavior.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Evolutionary Neurology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The relationship between morality and brain function is explored through evolutionary neurology.
- John Hughlings-Jackson's concept of higher mental functions as integrated sensorimotor processes provides a framework.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the neurological underpinnings of moral reasoning.
- To apply Hughlings-Jackson's principles to understand moral cognition.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of neurological disorders and their impact on higher mental functions.
- Conceptual integration of evolutionary neurology with moral reasoning.
Main Results:
- Moral reasoning involves the progressive integration and coordination of behavior.
- This process relies on representation and re-representation of information sensitive to environmental factors.
- Key brain areas involved include STS, IPL, IFG, DLPF, and AT structures.
Conclusions:
- Moral function represents a maximal integration of emotion, social cognition, and other-regarding sensibilities.
- Propositionally organized cognitive structures map human activity and relationships, informing moral judgments.
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