Flesh matters: The body in cognition. (6th July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shapiro, Lawrence A.
• Is Part Of: Mind & language. Volume 34:Number 1(2019:Feb.)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 2018-07-06
• Subjects: body relativity -- embodied cognition -- extended cognition -- extended mind -- functionalism; Psycholinguistics -- Periodicals; Thought and thinking -- Periodicals; Language and languages -- Philosophy -- Periodicals; 153.42
• DOI: 10.1111/mila.12203
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0268-1064

Abstract

Abstract : Embodied cognition emphasizes the importance of the body to cognition, but what is the nature of this importance? For some advocates, the body provides a computational resource within the context of a larger cognitive system. For others, the body constrains cognition, such that differently embodied organisms will differ cognitively as well. I examine these distinct conceptions of embodiment, defending the greater interest of the second. I argue as well that judgments of the body's significance in cognition do not, as contestants on both sides of the debate often insist, depend on showing the body to be a constituent in cognition.