Mind-Brain Identity Theory and Connectionist Models in Cognitive Science
Logical Criticism of the Mind-Brain Identity Theory
If we speak of identity between mental events (EM) and physical events (EF), then both should be governed by Leibniz’s laws:
- Law of Indiscernibility of Identicals: If two things cannot be distinguished, they are identical. Ax Ay [(x = y) -> (Fx <-> Py)]
- Law of Identity of Indiscernibles: If two things are identical, then they are indistinguishable. Ax Ay [AP (Px <-> Py) -> (x = y)]
Under these laws, if EM = EF, then they should have the same properties. However, properties of EM, such as their truth value (V or F), may not be present in EF. Additionally, EF properties occupy a spatial location, while mental states may not have a spatial component.
Defenders of the theory argue that Leibniz’s laws cannot be applied to attitudes, propositions, or propositional attitudes.
Metaphysical Criticism of the Mind-Brain Identity Theory
Based on the Principle of Multiple Realizability (PMM), some argue that the Mind-Brain Identity Theory cannot be true because there is no one-to-one correlation between mental and physical states. According to the PMM, a single mental state can be embodied in several different physical or brain processes.
Identity Theory proponents reject the PMM, arguing that subjects cannot be in the same mental state because mental states are unique and private.
Differences Between Classical and Connectionist Processing Models
Classical Models:
- Utilize symbols.
- Assume that mental states are computational states and that computation involves symbols.
- Based on the computer metaphor.
- View cognitive processes as computational processes.
Connectionist Models:
- Inspired by the design and structure of the brain.
- Do not require the manipulation of symbols.
- Do not rely on formal properties of a symbolic system to simulate cognition, but instead attempt to copy the brain’s structure.
- Connectionist models and structures are varied.
Representation in the Neurocomputational Theory of Mind
The Neurocomputational Theory of Mind (NWT) characterizes the nervous system as a massively parallel machine where each component performs its function independently. The processing unit is the neuron, and these neurons connect to form recurrent networks. Connections between multiple nodes are called vectors. Instead of mental states, the NWT focuses on activated vectors within these networks. A representation is formed by activating a specific vector, which in turn activates a group of nodes through electronic signals.
Eliminative Materialism (Patricia and Paul Churchland)
This theory argues that folk psychology should be replaced by neuroscience because folk psychology is false and lacks explanatory power. This replacement entails eliminating the language of folk psychology and any mentalistic descriptions. Thus, every belief or moral event would be described as a complex neuronal map, and any change of mind would involve adjustments to this map.
Description of the Nervous System
Peripheral Nervous System:
- Includes ganglia and peripheral nerves.
Central Nervous System:
the two main areas
are the spinal cord and brain.
“The spinal cord receives sensory information and
is responsible for voluntary and involuntary movements.
-Brain. In the brain the most important are:
* Medulla: automatic processes: respiration,
balance. Extension of the spinal cord.
* Bridge variola: continuation of the medulla.
It is a transit zone and distributes information to
cerebral hemispheres.
* Cerebellum: The neurons that form are very
long. Consisting of highly complex areas. Get information
spinal cord and motor cortex.
* The midbrain, is responsible for coordinating
eye movements.
* Diencephalon: limbic system (thalamus-> functions
motor and managing emotions; Hypothalamo-> place
generate chemicals)
* Hemispheres: -> basal ganglia
-> amygdala: fear
-> cortex cerebral lobes (frontal;
parietal, temporal, occipital)
The peripheral and central nervous system acting in
together although physically separated.
Areas of the brain in which
localize cognitive functions.
Prefrontal areas and promoter.
-sensory information.
motion-planning.
-weigh the consequences of
actions taken and planned behavior.
Association cortex areas.
-important links
for processing.
-perception
-language
Area limbic association cortex.
-connected emotions.