Cognitive Science and the Problem of Semantic Content

Criticisms are presented of the model of cognitive science outlined by Jerry Fodor in recent publications such as Representations (Montgomery, Vt: Bradford Books, 1981). The examined "problem of semantic content" is defined as the problem of explicating those features of a brain state or p...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Synthese (Dordrecht) 1987-02, Vol.70 (2), p.247-269
Main Author: Sayre, Ken
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Brain
Cognitive psychology
Communication theory
Computer modeling
Computer programming
Mind
Nervous system
Semantics
Sensory perception
Symbolism
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Summary:Criticisms are presented of the model of cognitive science outlined by Jerry Fodor in recent publications such as Representations (Montgomery, Vt: Bradford Books, 1981). The examined "problem of semantic content" is defined as the problem of explicating those features of a brain state or process by virtue of which it may be properly said to possess meaning or reference or truth value. Fodor's concept is closely related to artificial intelligence theories, stressing a top-down analysis. Some general features of Fodor's model are outlined, & it is shown to be incapable of providing an answer to the problem of semantic content outlined here. This is argued to result from a basic confusion between semantic information & information as defined by communication theory. 20 References. B. Annesser Murray
ISSN:0039-7857
1573-0964
DOI:10.1007/BF00413938