COMPUTATIONALISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Computationalism is a philosophical position and a theory within cognitive science that posits that cognitive processes, including those involved in perception, reasoning, and decision-making, can be explained in terms of computational algorithms and processes. It asserts that mental states and processes are fundamentally computational in nature, similar to the operation of a computer.
According to computationalism, the mind can be viewed as an information processing system that receives input from the external world, processes that information through various algorithms, and produces behavioral output. This perspective suggests that mental processes can be understood and replicated through computational models, allowing us to simulate and understand the workings of the mind.
Computationalism is based on the assumption that the brain is essentially a computational device, akin to a highly complex computer. It argues that the mind can be described as a series of computational operations, where neural activity represents the manipulation of symbolic information. This approach is often associated with the field of artificial intelligence, where researchers aim to create intelligent systems by emulating the computational processes of the human mind.
Critics of computationalism argue that it oversimplifies the complexity of mental processes, reducing them to mere computations and neglecting embodied, situated, and social aspects of cognition. Nevertheless, computationalism remains a prominent theory in cognitive science, providing valuable insights into understanding and modeling cognitive functions and offering potential avenues for developing advanced cognitive technologies.
Etymology of COMPUTATIONALISM
The word "computationalism" is derived from the noun "computation" combined with the suffix "-ism".
The term "computation" originates from the Latin root "computare", which means "to calculate", "to reckon", or "to compute". It was initially used in the context of mathematical calculations and mathematics. Over time, it evolved to encompass various forms of calculation, including those performed by machines.
The suffix "-ism" is a noun-forming suffix that is typically added to the end of a word to denote a system, doctrine, ideology, or belief. In this case, "-ism" is added to "computation" to form "computationalism", referring to the belief or doctrine that cognition and mental processes can be explained or understood through computational models or approaches.
