CGSC270 Introduction to Cognitive Science

Examination #2

Answer THREE of the questions that follow. Each answer should be 3 pages maximum. All examinations, in hardcopy, are due in class Oct. 14, 1998. Late examinations are not accepted. Please see the class web site for other instructions and cautions: e.g., on proofing, copying, etc.

1. We have looked at three aspects of the theory of computation: the organization of physical computing devices, certain principles of computation in the abstract, and learnability theory. How does the theory of computation provide the limits on what is computable, and why is it important to know these limits?

2. Levels of explanation have played an important role in our understanding of cognitive science. What we have learned about brain structure and function apply at the physical/material/machine level. Describe one phenomenon VERY BRIEFLY at the task and knowledge levels, and then show in detail how this phenomenon is supported by/run on the brain level.

3. Show how cognitive information processing is representational and selective. That is, argue that the structures and principles we have learned in our short lesson on cognitive psychology support both recoding and dedicated processing.

4. Richard Lewontin, as you have read, is very much against making claims about the evolution of cognition. In contrast, both Gallistel and Gazzaniga, as you have also read, are inclined to linking biology/evolution with claims about mental representation and processing. Summarize ONE of Lewontin's claims, and then argue against it using the information from Gazzaniga and Gallistel. Your answer should not be simply the juxtaposition of Lewontin and Gazzaniga/Gallistel or a list of points and counterpoints. Instead, give a coherent, integrated counterargument to Lewontin.