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Human tool cognition relies on teleology
1UiT The Arctic University of Norway, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway. mikolaj.l.hernik@uit.no.
The Behavioral and Brain Sciences
|August 11, 2020
Summary
Human tool cognition relies on functional representations and teleological reasoning, which are overlooked by existing theories. This teleofunctional approach better explains human technological advancement and cognitive uniqueness.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Evolutionary Psychology
- Anthropology
Background:
- Existing theories of human tool cognition, such as Osiurak and Reynaud's, may not fully capture the complexity of human technological capabilities.
- Understanding the cognitive underpinnings of tool use is crucial for explaining human evolutionary success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key cognitive elements missing in current accounts of human tool cognition.
- To propose the teleofunctional approach as a superior framework for understanding human tool use and technological innovation.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of existing theories on human tool cognition.
- Argumentation for the teleofunctional approach based on its explanatory power.
Main Results:
- Human capacity for functional representations and teleological inferences are critical components of tool cognition.
- The teleofunctional approach provides a more comprehensive explanation for observed features of human tool cognition.
Conclusions:
- The teleofunctional approach offers a promising explanation for the cognitive "difference-maker" in human technological success.
- Future research should further explore the role of functional representations and teleological reasoning in human evolution and cognition.
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