Research on cognition and action

Journal/Book: Z Psychol. 2000; 208: Im Weiher 10, D-69121 Heidelberg, Germany. Johann Ambrosius Barth Verlag. 32-54.

Abstract: This papers discusses some basic theoretical issues referring to relationships between cognition and action. The discussion starts with a brief historical overview and then addresses various aspects of linkages between cognitive functions and action planning from a systematic perspective. The core issue is to understand how (objective) action can be explained in terms of (subjective) volition. It is proposed that a coherent psychological theory of human action requires to abandon the principle of mental causation, which is so deeply routed in folkpsychology notions of volition and action. It is argued that such abandonment is a prerequisite for a theory that can, at least in principle, also be explicated in neurophysiological terms. An example of a theory that meets these requirements is briefly outlined.

Note: Article Prinz W, Max Planck Inst Psychol Forsch, Amalienstr 33, D-80799 Munich, GERMANY

Keyword(s): cognition; action; volition; causation; S-R COMPATIBILITY; STIMULUS-RESPONSE COMPATIBILITY; AUTOMATIC INTEGRATION; INFORMATION; EXPLANATION; SELECTION; ATTENTION; TASK

Zurück | Weiter