Connectionism and the Mind Second Edition: Parallel Processing, Dynamics, and Evolution in Networks

by Adele Abrahamsen (Contributor), William Bechtel (Author)

• New

  Paperback
  2001

  $45.71

  Connectionism and the Mind provides a clear and balanced introduction to connectionist networks and explores theoretical and philosophical implications.

• Used

  Paperback
  1990

  $3.40

  The newest cognitive models are inspired by the properties of the brain itself. Variously referred to as connectionist , parallel distributed processing or neutral-network models, they explore the idea that complex intellectual operations can be carried out by large networks of simple, neuron-like units. The units themselves are identical, very low-level, and stupid - intelligent performance is derived from the pattern of connection strengths between units, and the fundamental cognitive activity is pattern recognition and completion. In contrast, in traditional models knowledge is represented symbolically, and the basic cognitive activity is the manipulation of symbols in accord with rules. Connectionism and the Mind provides an introduction to this newly emerging approach to understanding the mind, and includes exposition of several of the actual simulations that connectionists have developed. In addition, this book addresses the implications of connectionism for theories of the mind, both philosophical and psychological. Finally, Connectionism and the Mind examines the relation of connectionist models to philosophical accounts of propositional attitudes, and to a variety of other inquiries in cognitive psychology, linguistics, developmental psychology, artificial intelligence and neuroscience.