Analog Resonance Computation: A New Model for Human Cognition.

Aidan J Byrne

doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02080

Abstract

Early models of human cognition appeared to posit the brain as a collection of discrete digital computing modules with specific data processing functions. More recent theories such as the Hierarchically Mechanistic Mind characterize the brain as a massive hierarchy of interconnected and adaptive circuits whose primary aim is to reduce entropy. However, studies in high workload/stress situations show that human behavior is often error prone and seemingly irrational. Rather than regarding such behavior to be uncharacteristic, this paper suggest that such “atypical” behavior provides the best information on which to base theories of human cognition. Rather than using a digital paradigm, human cognition should be seen as an analog computer based on resonating circuits whose primary driver is to constantly extract information from the massively complex and rapidly changing world around us to construct an internal model of reality that allows us to rapidly respond to the threats and opportunities.

Highlights

There is currently no widely accepted model of human cognition which resolves the results of studies in both neuroscience and human psychology (Badcock et al, 2019)
The surgeon had asked for an “M11,” which was an old type of heavy duty clip applicator, which was their long standing request when a large blood vessel had been cut and there was rapid bleeding
A different clip applicator had been in use for some time, but the surgical assistant knew what was required when asked for an “M11.”

Summary

INTRODUCTION

There is currently no widely accepted model of human cognition which resolves the results of studies in both neuroscience and human psychology (Badcock et al, 2019). At around 2 h into the procedure, the senior anesthetist, suddenly increased the infusion of intravenous fluid, asked for blood and got it ready to infuse, despite their being no change in the patient’s pulse or blood pressure. The inexperienced anesthetist questioned the decision to give blood, but almost immediately the patient’s blood pressure fell and it became obvious that they were bleeding heavily. The senior anesthetist could not explain why they had started to treat the patient so quickly. After some thought, three factors were identified They knew that 2 h into the procedure was when blood loss was most likely, and that any bleeding at that point was going to be rapid and need immediate treatment. The change is very difficult to describe, but recognized after years listening to the same procedure

Analogue Resonance Cognition

EVIDENCE FROM BEHAVIORAL STUDIES

Findings

CONCLUSION