Dynamicism
Encyclopedia
Dynamicism, also termed the dynamic hypothesis or the dynamic hypothesis in cognitive science or dynamic cognition, is a new approach in cognitive science
exemplified by the work of philosopher Tim van Gelder
. It argues that differential equations are more suited to modelling cognition
than more traditional computer
models. Cf also dynamical systems theory
.
Cognitive science
Cognitive science is the interdisciplinary scientific study of mind and its processes. It examines what cognition is, what it does and how it works. It includes research on how information is processed , represented, and transformed in behaviour, nervous system or machine...
exemplified by the work of philosopher Tim van Gelder
Tim van Gelder
Tim van Gelder was a founder of Austhink Software, an Australian software development company, and Managing Director of Austhink Consulting. He was born in Australia, educated at the University of Melbourne , the University of Pittsburgh , and held academic positions at Indiana University and the...
. It argues that differential equations are more suited to modelling cognition
Cognition
In science, cognition refers to mental processes. These processes include attention, remembering, producing and understanding language, solving problems, and making decisions. Cognition is studied in various disciplines such as psychology, philosophy, linguistics, and computer science...
than more traditional computer
Computer
A computer is a programmable machine designed to sequentially and automatically carry out a sequence of arithmetic or logical operations. The particular sequence of operations can be changed readily, allowing the computer to solve more than one kind of problem...
models. Cf also dynamical systems theory
Dynamical systems theory
Dynamical systems theory is an area of applied mathematics used to describe the behavior of complex dynamical systems, usually by employing differential equations or difference equations. When differential equations are employed, the theory is called continuous dynamical systems. When difference...
.