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On the human uniqueness of the temporal reasoning system
1Department of Philosophy, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA94132. cmontema@sfsu.eduwww.carlosmontemayor.org.
The Behavioral and Brain Sciences
|December 13, 2019
Summary
Temporal reasoning, considered uniquely human, is explored. This commentary examines agency and language as justifications, finding issues with both arguments for human uniqueness in temporal cognition.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Philosophy of Mind
- Linguistics
Background:
- Hoerl & McCormack propose temporal reasoning as a uniquely human capacity.
- Understanding the basis of this claimed human uniqueness is crucial for cognitive science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the justifications for temporal reasoning being uniquely human.
- To critically assess arguments based on agency and language.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of arguments concerning agency.
- Examination of linguistic theories supporting unique temporal reasoning.
- Critique of existing justifications for human uniqueness in temporal cognition.
Main Results:
- Identified two primary lines of argument for human uniqueness in temporal reasoning: agency and language.
- Presented significant challenges and problems for both the agency-based and language-based justifications.
- Undermined the strong claim that temporal reasoning is exclusively human.
Conclusions:
- Neither agency nor language provides a fully convincing basis for the thesis that temporal reasoning is uniquely human.
- Further research is needed to identify robust criteria for human uniqueness in temporal cognition.
- The commentary suggests a re-evaluation of the distinctiveness of human temporal reasoning abilities.
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