On the Input Problem for Massive Modularity

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Jerry Fodor argues that the massive modularity thesis -- the claim that (human) cognition is wholly served by domain specific, autonomous computational devices, i.e., modules -- is a priori incoherent, self-defeating. The thesis suffers from what Fodor dubs the `input problem': the function of a given module (proprietarily understood) in a wholly modular system presupposes non-modular processes. It will be argued that massive modularity suffers from no such a priori problem. Fodor, however, also offers what he describes as a `really real' input problem (i.e., an empirical one). It will be suggested that this problem is real enough, but it does not selectively strike down massive modularity -- it is a problem for everyone.