The Mind Doesn't Work That Way
The Mind Doesn't Work That Way
Jerry A. Fodor
Nassim Taleb
Horribly written (that is Fodor's charm after all) but his argumentation is so ferocious that he ends up loud & clear. - Nassim Taleb
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The Mind Doesn't Work That Way

The Mind Doesn't Work That Way: The Scope and Limits of Computational Psychology

Jerry A. Fodor
By
Jerry A. Fodor
3.7
133
ratings on Goodreads

In "The Mind Doesn't Work That Way," Jerry A. Fodor presents a compelling counterargument to the widely accepted notions that underpin the fields of cognitive science and evolutionary psychology. With a critical eye, Fodor dissects the prevailing beliefs that mental processes are essentially computational, that cognition is supported by a massively modular architecture, and that our innate mental structures are the product of Darwinian evolution. While acknowledging the partial successes of computational theories of mind, Fodor challenges us to confront the limitations of our current understanding, arguing persuasively that these theories only scratch the surface of the complex reality of human cognition. Fodor's exploration moves beyond mere critique, engaging with the intellectual underpinnings of cognitive science and evolutionary psychology. He delves into the differences between Chomsky's nativism and the New Synthesis approach to evolutionary psychology, illuminating the nuanced debates that shape our understanding of the mind. By the book's conclusion, Fodor emerges not as a detractor but as a cautious realist, reminding us that despite the strides made in cognitive science, the discipline is still in its infancy. "The Mind Doesn't Work That Way" is an essential read for anyone interested in the ongoing quest to understand the intricacies of the human mind, offering a critical but hopeful perspective on where the field stands and where it might go.

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Released
2000
24 Jul
Length
144
Pages

1

recommendations

recommendation

Horribly written (that is Fodor's charm after all) but his argumentation is so ferocious that he ends up loud & clear. - Nassim Taleb
— Jerry A. Fodor, The Mind Doesn't Work That Way

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