improving concepts in cognitive science

Rotterdam, July 24th @ CogSci Society 2024

In cognitive science, what exactly is a "representation"? Are there distinct "types" of memory, and how should they be studied? Can we approach the study of cognitive processes without classifying them into discrete kinds? 

In this interdisciplinary workshop, we will critically examine the conceptual foundations of cognitive science disciplines. Through talks, discussions, and collaborative activities, attendees will assess the concepts guiding their disciplines and brainstorm ways to improve these foundations.

The workshop will cover the following themes:

1) examples of new conceptual frameworks and methods for improving concepts in different cognitive science disciplines

2) insights from the cognitive science of concepts that could inform the process of improving scientific conceptualizations

3) philosophical insights on the role of concepts in cognitive science and the methods for their improvement


Register here

With any questions, contact Marina at mdubova@iu.edu

The image shows a scientist using a mold to decompose the world as an analogy for how scientists use concepts to "carve" their phenomena of interest. The scientist uses a triangular mold to decompose the world, which leads to difficulties for the other scientist who receives that decomposition and tries to provide a coherent reconstruction of that world. This exemplifies challenges faced by disciplines that use concepts that are not well suited for their phenomena of interest. A third scientist, an allegory for progressive improvement in scientific concepts, suggests a potentially better, curved mold for breaking down the world.
Image credit: Joe Lee

organizers

Marina Dubova
Indiana University

which learning mechanisms could support the development of useful scientific concepts?

Lisa Feldman Barrett
Northeastern University

what would cognitive science look like if we stopped searching for "types" of perceptions, cognitions, emotions, and so on?

Robert L. Goldstone
Indiana University

continues to wonder what concepts are, despite allegedly studying them for decades

Sebastian Musslick
University of Osnabrück
& Brown University

which research infrastructure is needed to improve cognitive concepts?

Russell Poldrack
Stanford University

what would a computational ontology of cognition look like?