Explore key theoretical trends that underpin embodied cognitive science and develop a framework with which to distinguish and define an embodied perspective. Describe the scope and interdisciplinary nature of cognitive science, and identify the main theoretical trends emerging in embodied cognitive science. Learn and discuss the key differences between an embodied perspective compared to the traditional stance. Use the interdisciplinary tools of an embodied cognitive approach to consider open problems and challenges and offer potential solutions. Demonstrate this understanding through weekly written exercises and a final paper. Prior experience in cognitive science (any discipline) is highly advantageous but not essential.
- Week 1 – Introduction
- Week 2 – The mechanistic worldview
- Week 3 – Systems thinking and cybernetics
- Week 4 – Sense-making and adaptivity
- Week 5 – Participatory sense-making
- Week 6 – Coordination dynamics
- Week 7 – Sensorimotor interaction theory
- Week 8 – International Conference on Embodied Cognitive Science 2022: Interaction Matters
- Week 9 – Sensory substitution
- Week 10 – Interpersonal synergies
- Week 11 – The interactive brain hypothesis
- Week 12 – The body social
- Week 13 – An enactive approach to psychiatry
- Week 14 – Habits and normativity
- Capra’s A Systems View of Life will be drawn on much throughout the course, and may be worth acquiring in advance.
enrollment cap of 9 students