Symbols, Computation, and Intentionality: A Critique of the Computational Theory of Mind - Softcover

Horst Horst, Steven W

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1466348135 ISBN 13: 9781466348134

Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform, 2011

Synopsis

The computational theory of mind--the belief that the mind can be likened to a computer and that cognitive states possess the generative and compositional properties of natural languages--has proven enormously influential in recent philosophical studies of cognition. In this carefully argued critique, Steven Horst pronounces the theory deficient. He refutes its claims and assumptions, particularly the assertion that symbolic representations need not have conventional meaning. Horst goes on to sketch a new methodology for looking at the philosophy of psychology, one that provides a more fruitful way of comparing computational psychology with rival views emerging from connectionism and neuroscience. Original and comprehensive, his book is certain to provoke controversy and stimulate debate.

About this title

About the Author

Steven W. Horst is Professor of Philosophy at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, and works in philosophy of mind/cognitive science, philosophy of science, epistemology and metaphysics. He is also author of Beyond Reduction (Oxford University Press 2007) and Laws, Mind, and Free Will (MIT Press, 2011).

Edition details

• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Publication date: 2011
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1466348135
• ISBN 13: 9781466348134
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 462