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Is the Mind a Network? Maps, Vehicles, and Skyhooks in Cognitive Network Science
Thomas T Hills1, Yoed N Kenett2
1Department of Psychology, University of Warwick.
Topics in Cognitive Science
|August 26, 2021
Summary
The mind is not a network, but network science offers a powerful framework for understanding cognitive structures and processes. This approach reveals assumptions and generates new research questions about cognition.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Network Science
- Computational Neuroscience
Background:
- Cognitive research traditionally divides cognition into structures and processes.
- Network science provides a powerful lens for modeling cognitive architecture.
- Existing metaphors like 'maps and vehicles' have limitations in representing cognitive complexity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the 'mind as a network' metaphor in cognitive science.
- To explore new metaphors for understanding cognitive network dynamics.
- To identify open questions and challenges in applying network science to cognition.
Main Methods:
- Review of prevalent metaphors and assumptions in cognitive network science.
- Introduction of novel metaphors (wormholes, skyhooks, generators).
- Discussion of challenges in network change, edge definition, and network aggregation.
Main Results:
- The 'mind as a network' approach enhances visibility of assumptions and generates novel research questions.
- Network science is a valuable tool for cognitive research, despite its limitations.
- The mind is not a network itself, but may contain network structures.
Conclusions:
- The network science approach, while incomplete, is crucial for advancing cognitive research.
- New metaphors are needed to capture the dynamic and complex nature of cognitive networks.
- Future research should address the challenges of network change and individual-based modeling.
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