Conceptual engineering, predictive processing, and a new implementation problem

Bibliographic Data

ID21502009
AuthorsGuido Löhr (0000-0002-7028-3515, Eindhoven University of Technology Eindhoven Netherlands), Christian Michel (0000-0001-9962-5403, University of Edinburgh Edinburgh UK, corresponding author)
Year2024
Volume39
Issue2
Pages201-219
Publication date2024-04-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueMind & Language (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0268-1064 • E-ISSN: 1468-0017
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/mila.12471
OpenAlexW4384696145
LanguageEN
Citations received6
References cited57

According to predictive processing, an increasingly influential paradigm in cognitive science, the function of the brain is to minimize the prediction error of its sensory input. Conceptual engineering is the practice of assessing and changing concepts or word meanings. We contribute to both strands of research by proposing the first cognitive account of conceptual engineering, using the predictive processing framework. Our model reveals a new kind of implementation problem as prediction errors are only minimized if enough agents embrace conceptual changes. This problem can be overcome by emphasizing the importance of social norms and conceptual pluralism

Cognition · Cognitive science · Conceptual framework · Data science · Epistemology · Management science · Action Observation and Synchronization · Computer Science · Critical Realism in Sociology · Embodied and Extended Cognition · Engineering · Psychology · Artificial Intelligence