[PDF] The Way We Think eBook

Author : Gilles Fauconnier
Publisher : Basic Books
Page : 468 pages
File Size : 27,67 MB
Release : 2008-08-06
Category : Psychology
ISBN : 0786725575

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In its first two decades, much of cognitive science focused on such mental functions as memory, learning, symbolic thought, and language acquisition -- the functions in which the human mind most closely resembles a computer. But humans are more than computers, and the cutting-edge research in cognitive science is increasingly focused on the more mysterious, creative aspects of the mind. The Way We Think is a landmark synthesis that exemplifies this new direction. The theory of conceptual blending is already widely known in laboratories throughout the world; this book is its definitive statement. Gilles Fauconnier and Mark Turner argue that all learning and all thinking consist of blends of metaphors based on simple bodily experiences. These blends are then themselves blended together into an increasingly rich structure that makes up our mental functioning in modern society. A child's entire development consists of learning and navigating these blends. The Way We Think shows how this blending operates; how it is affected by (and gives rise to) language, identity, and concept of category; and the rules by which we use blends to understand ideas that are new to us. The result is a bold, exciting, and accessible new view of how the mind works.

Author : Rolf Pfeifer
Publisher : MIT Press
Page : 419 pages
File Size : 11,61 MB
Release : 2006-10-27
Category : Computers
ISBN : 0262288524

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An exploration of embodied intelligence and its implications points toward a theory of intelligence in general; with case studies of intelligent systems in ubiquitous computing, business and management, human memory, and robotics. How could the body influence our thinking when it seems obvious that the brain controls the body? In How the Body Shapes the Way We Think, Rolf Pfeifer and Josh Bongard demonstrate that thought is not independent of the body but is tightly constrained, and at the same time enabled, by it. They argue that the kinds of thoughts we are capable of have their foundation in our embodiment—in our morphology and the material properties of our bodies. This crucial notion of embodiment underlies fundamental changes in the field of artificial intelligence over the past two decades, and Pfeifer and Bongard use the basic methodology of artificial intelligence—"understanding by building"—to describe their insights. If we understand how to design and build intelligent systems, they reason, we will better understand intelligence in general. In accessible, nontechnical language, and using many examples, they introduce the basic concepts by building on recent developments in robotics, biology, neuroscience, and psychology to outline a possible theory of intelligence. They illustrate applications of such a theory in ubiquitous computing, business and management, and the psychology of human memory. Embodied intelligence, as described by Pfeifer and Bongard, has important implications for our understanding of both natural and artificial intelligence.

Author : Denise D. Cummins
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 213 pages
File Size : 43,66 MB
Release : 2012-04-16
Category : History
ISBN : 0521192048

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Do you know what economists mean when they refer to you as a "rational agent"? Or why a psychologist might label your idea a "creative insight"? After reading this book, you will know how the best and brightest thinkers judge the ways we decide, argue, solve problems, and tell right from wrong.

Author : Frances Moore Lappe
Publisher : Bold Type Books
Page : 308 pages
File Size : 38,88 MB
Release : 2013-04-23
Category : Science
ISBN : 1568587430

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In EcoMind, Frances Moore LappŽÑa giant of the environmental movementÑconfronts accepted wisdom of environmentalism. Drawing on the latest research from anthropology to neuroscience and her own field experience, she argues that the biggest challenge to human survival isnÕt our fossil fuel dependency, melting glaciers, or other calamities. Rather, itÕs our faulty way of thinking about these environmental crises that robs us of power. LappŽ dismantles seven common Òthought trapsÓÑfrom limits to growth to the failings of democracyÑ that belie what we now know about nature, including our own, and offers contrasting Òthought leapsÓ that reveal our hidden power. Like her Diet for a Small Planet classic, EcoMind is challenging, controversial and empowering.

Author : Alan Grafen
Publisher : Oxford University Press (UK)
Page : 298 pages
File Size : 19,77 MB
Release : 2007
Category : Biography & Autobiography
ISBN : 0199214662

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This sparkling collection explores the impact of Richard Dawkins as scientist, rationalist, and one of the most important thinkers alive today. Specially commissioned pieces by leading figures in science, philosophy, literature, and the media, such as Daniel C. Dennett, Matt Ridley, Steven Pinker, Philip Pullman, and the Bishop of Oxford, highlight the breadth and range of Dawkins' influence on modern science and culture, from the gene's eye view of evolution to his energetic engagement in public debates on science, rationalism, and religion. The volume includes personal reminiscences and critical debate as well as accessible discussions of science - it provides a stimulating tribute to a remarkable intellectual.

Author : Glenn S. Sunshine
Publisher : Zondervan Academic
Page : 242 pages
File Size : 34,38 MB
Release : 2009-08-30
Category : Religion
ISBN : 0310323541

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How do we come by our worldviews and philosophies? What impact did Christianity have on the worldviews that are common to Western civilization? Why You Think the Way You Do traces the development of the worldviews that underpin the Western world. Professor and historian Glenn S. Sunshine demonstrates the decisive impact that the growth of Christianity had in transforming the outlook of pagan Roman culture into one that—based on biblical concepts of humanity and its relationship with God—established virtually all the positive aspects of Western civilization. The two-pronged assault in our time on the biblically based worldview by postmodern philosophy and the writings of neo-atheists has made it even more crucial that we acknowledge and defend its historical roots. This authoritative, accessible survey discusses Western worldviews as a continuous narrative rather than as simply a catalogue of ideas. Why You Think the Way You Do: Traces the effects that changes in worldview had on society. Helps you understand your own worldview and those of other people. Helps you recognize the ways that your worldview, philosophies, beliefs, and presuppositions affect the way you think about everything.

Author : John Paul Minda
Publisher : Hachette UK
Page : 449 pages
File Size : 29,26 MB
Release : 2021-04-29
Category : Psychology
ISBN : 1472143027

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This book will get you thinking about thinking. We understand more about the brain than ever before and we also have more tools than ever before to help us think. This book will show you how your brain works, how your mind works, why we all make certain mistakes in thinking and why that's not always a bad thing. In order to understand how people behave, you need to understand how people think. And if you want to understand how people think, you need to have a basic understanding of cognitive psychology, cognitive science and cognitive neuroscience. This book explains cognition and the links between the brain, the mind and behaviour in a clear and straightforward way. Through interesting case studies and research examples, Minda shows how the brain is involved in mental activity, how memory works, how language affects thought, how good (and bad) decisions are made, and why we make predictable errors in our thinking. With practical applications for everyday life, this a book that helps us become better thinkers, better learners and better problem-solvers. In the current era of big data, algorithms and AI, Minda argues that knowing about how humans think-how you think-is more important than ever before.

Author : Michael Mack
Publisher : A&C Black
Page : 210 pages
File Size : 34,20 MB
Release : 2011-12-01
Category : Literary Criticism
ISBN : 1441119140

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Author : Vishal Jacob
Publisher : Notion Press
Page : 175 pages
File Size : 43,79 MB
Release : 2018-06-15
Category : Self-Help
ISBN : 1643244779

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Every life is an interesting story, and this story is best written when people go through life’s experiences by staying connected to who they truly are. To stay connected to yourself, you need first to start listening from within. This book gives a perspective on why we think, feel and act the way we do, through concepts from neuroscience and psychology. It attempts to answer some of life’s key questions, such as— - Why do we all perceive things differently? - Why are we designed to do different things? - Why do we all learn things in different ways? - How are habits formed? - What role do emotions play in our lives? - What makes us happy? And finally, what it means and takes to stay connected to ourselves and others. “Great ideas for a better living, that not only help you to connect with yourself but also to connect with others.” Dr. David J Lincoln – Chief advisor and president ANLP India. “The simplicity of ideas and the depth of knowledge make this book a must-read for leaders everywhere.” Rajat Garg Master Certified Coach & Director, Global Board of Directors for The ICF (International Coaching Federation) “Vishal brings to life and connects many aspects of living with facts about the brain and how the human mind works. These easy to read and well-structured reflections ‘from the heart’ show the simple aspects of living life fully.” Chitra Ravi Founder & Principle consultant at SeedTLC, Regional Representative for India & Asia on the Board of Trustees of the ITAA (International Transactional Analysis Association)

Author : Mark Williams
Publisher : Thames & Hudson
Page : 226 pages
File Size : 13,67 MB
Release : 2021-09-28
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 050077255X

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A fresh and revealing look at the stories at the heart of Celtic mythology, exploring their cultural impact throughout history up to the present day. The Celtic Myths That Shape the Way We Think explores a fascinating question: how do myths that were deeply embedded in the customs and beliefs of their original culture find themselves retold and reinterpreted across the world, centuries or even millennia later? Focusing on the myths that have had the greatest cultural impact, Mark Williams reveals the lasting influence of Celtic mythology, from medieval literature to the modern fantasy genre. An elegantly written retelling, Williams captures the splendor of the original myths while also delving deeper into the history of their meanings, offering readers an intelligent and engaging take on these powerful stories. Beautiful illustrations of the artworks these myths have inspired over the centuries are presented in a color plates section and in black and white within the text. Ten chapters recount the myths and explore the lasting influence of legendary figures, including King Arthur, the Celtic figure who paradoxically became the archetypal English national hero; the Irish and Scottish hero Finn MacCool, who as “Fingal” caught the imagination of Napoleon Bonaparte, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and Felix Mendelssohn; and the Welsh mythical figure Blodeuwedd, magically created from flowers of the oak, who inspired W. B. Yeats. Williams’s mythological expertise and captivating writing style make this volume essential reading for anyone seeking a greater appreciation of the myths that have shaped our artistic and literary canons and continue to inspire today.