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More why, less how: What we need from models of cognition
1MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Cognition
|March 29, 2021
Summary
Cognitive science needs theoretical explanations, not just descriptions. Current models focus too much on
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Theoretical Frameworks
Background:
- Science often prioritizes description over explanation.
- The journal Cognition was founded to counter this trend.
- Cognitive science currently favors theoretical approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the necessity of theoretical approaches in cognitive science.
- To identify and address counter-productive trends in cognitive modeling.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical trends in scientific inquiry.
- Analysis of current theoretical and modeling practices in cognitive science.
Main Results:
- Theoretical approaches are crucial for advancing cognitive science.
- Overemphasis on 'how' without considering 'why' in models is a concern.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive science must balance mechanistic explanations with functional understanding.
- Defining the ultimate goals of cognitive models is essential for progress.
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