Multiscale integration

Beyond internalism and externalism

Datos Bibliográficos

ID10807559
AutoresMaxwell J D Ramstead (0000-0002-1477-8177, Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, autor de correspondencia), Michael D Kirchhoff (0000-0002-2530-0718, University of Wollongong), Axel Constant (0000-0002-1547-8803, Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging), Karl J Friston (0000-0001-7984-8909, Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging)
Año2021
Volumen198
NúmeroS1
Páginas41-70
Fecha de publicación2021-01-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaSynthese (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 0039-7857 • E-ISSN: 1573-0964
EditorialSpringer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1007/s11229-019-02115-x
PMID33627890
OpenAlexW2914342221
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas23
Referencias citadas72

We present a multiscale integrationist interpretation of the boundaries of cognitive systems, using the Markov blanket formalism of the variational free energy principle. This interpretation is intended as a corrective for the philosophical debate over internalist and externalist interpretations of cognitive boundaries; we stake out a compromise position. We first survey key principles of new radical (extended, enactive, embodied) views of cognition. We then describe an internalist interpretation premised on the Markov blanket formalism. Having reviewed these accounts, we develop our positive multiscale account. We argue that the statistical seclusion of internal from external states of the system—entailed by the existence of a Markov boundary—can coexist happily with the multiscale integration of the system through its dynamics. Our approach does not privilege any given boundary (whether it be that of the brain, body, or world), nor does it argue that all boundaries are equally prescient. We argue that the relevant boundaries of cognition depend on the level being characterised and the explanatory interests that guide investigation. We approach the issue of how and where to draw the boundaries of cognitive systems through a multiscale ontology of cognitive systems, which offers a multidisciplinary research heuristic for cognitive science

Cognitive science · Epistemology · Externalism · Internalism and externalism · Interpretation (philosophy) · Metaphysics · Philosophy of language · Philosophy of science · Computer Science · Embodied and Extended Cognition · Neural dynamics and brain function · Philosophy · Philosophy and History of Science · Psychology

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