logo
pagesback-cover
177
Reddit meter
all mentions

The Mind Doesn't Work That Way

144 pages, 2001

philosophy

philosophy

711 books
psychology

psychology

705 books
science & nature

science & nature

1064 books
Takeaways
Description

In this engaging book, Jerry Fodor argues against the widely held view that mental processes are largely computations, that the architecture of cognition is massively modular, and that the explanation of our innate mental structure is basically Darwinian. Although Fodor has praised the computational theory of mind as the best theory of cognition that we have got, he considers it to be only a fragment of the truth. 

In fact, he claims, cognitive scientists do not really know much yet about how the mind works (the book's title refers to Steve Pinker's How the Mind Works). Fodor's primary aim is to explore the relationship between computational and modular theories of mind, nativism, and evolutionary psychology.

 Along the way, he explains how Chomsky's version of nativism differs from that of the widely received New Synthesis approach. He concludes that although we have no grounds to suppose that most of the mind is modular, we have no idea how non-modular cognition could work. Thus, according to Fodor, cognitive science has hardly gotten started. 

The Complexity of the Mind

In 'The Mind Doesn't Work That Way', Jerry Fodor explores the intricate workings of the human mind. He argues that our minds are not as simple as some cognitive scientists suggest. Instead, he believes that our minds are incredibly complex and not fully understood yet. This book will make you see your mind in a whole new light.

Critique of Computationalism

Fodor takes a critical look at computationalism, the idea that the mind functions like a computer. He argues that this theory is too simplistic and doesn't account for the mind's complexity. If you're interested in cognitive science, you'll find his arguments thought-provoking.

The Limitations of Cognitive Science

Fodor points out the limitations of cognitive science in understanding the human mind. He believes that while it has made significant strides, it still falls short in explaining how our minds work. This book will make you question what you thought you knew about the mind.

The Role of Language in Thought

One of the key points Fodor makes in his book is the role of language in our thought processes. He argues that our thoughts are shaped by the language we use, a concept that will make you rethink how you communicate and understand the world around you.

The Future of Cognitive Science

Despite his criticisms, Fodor is optimistic about the future of cognitive science. He believes that with more research and a better understanding of the mind's complexity, we can make significant progress. If you're interested in the future of cognitive science, you'll want to check out this book.

Recommendations

1
authorNassim Nicholas Taleb

Nassim Nicholas Taleb

educatorscientistauthor

The Mind Doesn't Work That Way found in libraries

2
71 books

Best Books For Personal Finance

Organize and track your wallet and the flow of your money with the Best Books for Personal Finance.

33 books

Books About Mental Health

Become the best version of yourself full of hope, dreams, and self-confidence with the Best Books About Mental Health.