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Time of India
26-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Instant Scholar: Jerry Fodor's 'where cognitive science went wrong'
Jerry Fodor (1935–2017) was one of the most influential philosophers of mind and cognitive science in the 20th century. A towering figure in analytic philosophy, Fodor advanced a rigorous framework for understanding the mind, language, and computation through his Language of Thought hypothesis, his support of modularity, and his resistance to certain trends in evolutionary psychology and connectionism. However, what makes Fodor particularly compelling is not just the framework he proposed but also the trenchant critique he launched in his later years against what he saw as the failings of cognitive science. In Fodor's view, the discipline had taken a wrong turn by abandoning the classical computational theory of mind and succumbing to vague, often biologically speculative, models of mental architecture. The Foundations: Fodor's Language of Thought Hypothesis At the heart of Fodor's philosophy is the Language of Thought Hypothesis (LOTH), proposed in his 1975 book The Language of Thought. According to LOTH, human cognition is structured like a formal language—a mentalese—that has its own syntax and semantics. Just as a computer operates by manipulating symbols based on formal rules, the mind works by computing over internal representations. This view aligned with the classical computational theory of mind (CTM), which posits that cognitive processes resemble digital computation: they manipulate structured symbols according to algorithmic rules. Fodor argued this approach offered a rigorous and scientifically tractable model for explaining mental processes such as reasoning, problem-solving, and language use. Modularity of Mind and Encapsulation In his 1983 work The Modularity of Mind, Fodor made a further contribution by proposing that certain cognitive functions—particularly perceptual systems—are modular. That is, they are: Domain-specific (dedicated to a specific type of information), Informationally encapsulated (do not draw on beliefs or knowledge from other domains), Fast and automatic, and Innately specified. He made a distinction between modular systems (like vision or language parsing) and central systems (like belief formation), which he considered non-modular and much harder to formalise. The modularity concept provided a bridge between psychology and neuroscience and offered a counterpoint to holistic models of cognition. Where Cognitive Science Went Wrong: The Shift to Connectionism and Evolutionary Psychology Fodor's discontent with cognitive science began when it moved away from classical models toward connectionism—the idea that cognition arises from networks of simple, neuron-like units operating in parallel. While this model captured some aspects of learning and pattern recognition (as in artificial neural networks), Fodor argued it failed to account for the structured and systematic nature of thought. 1. Rejection of Structured Representation Fodor and his co-author, Zenon Pylyshyn, in their paper 'Connectionism and Cognitive Architecture: A Critical Analysis' (1988), argued that connectionist models could not explain systematicity and compositionality in thought. For example, if someone understands the sentence 'John loves Mary,' they should also understand 'Mary loves John.' This ability to recombine elements of thought is systematic and compositional, and Fodor believed connectionism could not replicate this feature without covertly reintroducing symbolic structure—thus undermining its own claim. 2. Against Darwinizing the Mind In his 2010 book What Darwin Got Wrong, co-authored with Massimo Piattelli-Palmarini, Fodor mounted a major critique of evolutionary psychology and the application of Darwinian natural selection to explain cognitive traits. While not denying evolution as a fact, Fodor attacked selectionist explanations for mental phenomena. His central concern was what he called the 'problem of correlated traits': when two traits are correlated, natural selection doesn't 'know' which one is being selected for. He also questioned the explanatory power of adaptationism, arguing that just-so stories about how cognitive traits evolved were unfalsifiable and speculative. In Fodor's view, these evolutionary narratives lacked the precision and predictive capacity of genuine scientific theories. The Hard Problem: Central Cognition Is Still a Mystery Fodor consistently acknowledged the limits of cognitive science. While he believed that perceptual and linguistic systems might be successfully explained in modular and computational terms, he argued that 'central cognition'—how we form beliefs, make decisions, and reason abstractly—remained a scientific mystery. He wrote: 'Nobody has the slightest idea how anything could be a cause of anything else in a system as plastic and context-sensitive as central cognition.' For Fodor, this was not a temporary limitation but a deep epistemic gap. Unlike modular systems, central cognition was not domain-specific or encapsulated. It was holistic, global, and sensitive to virtually all information available to the organism. That made it hard—perhaps impossible—to model computationally or neurologically. The Linguistic Turn: Alignment with Chomsky Fodor's intellectual kinship with Noam Chomsky reinforced his critique of mainstream cognitive science. Both thinkers defended nativism, modularity, and the poverty of the stimulus argument (the idea that language acquisition cannot be explained by experience alone). They shared a skepticism toward behaviorist or empiricist accounts of the mind. But while Chomsky remained primarily focused on linguistics, Fodor ventured more directly into philosophy of mind and cognitive theory. Both, however, resisted the neurobiological reductionism that sought to reduce cognitive science to brain science. The Legacy: A Disciplinary Provocation Fodor's legacy is not one of solving all the mysteries of the mind but of articulating them with clarity, precision, and honesty. He had no patience for fuzzy theories or metaphysical speculation disguised as science. His central warning was that without a coherent notion of representation and computation, cognitive science would become incoherent or revert to descriptive psychology. His critics accused him of being overly pessimistic or stuck in outdated models. But many also admitted that his challenges forced the field to sharpen its assumptions. Fodor's insistence on rigor, his wit, and his philosophical sharpness made him a thorn in the side of many, but also a guardian of scientific seriousness. Jerry Fodor believed cognitive science began with great promise—applying computational and representational models to explain the mind. But he saw the field go astray by embracing connectionism, evolutionary storytelling, and neurological reductionism without first solving foundational problems about mental representation, compositionality, and central cognition. Fodor didn't claim to have all the answers—but he was unafraid to say when a discipline didn't either. In doing so, he preserved a space for serious philosophical inquiry within a field increasingly tempted by technological and theoretical trends. 'Instant Scholar' is a Times of India initiative to make academic research accessible to a wider audience. If you are a Ph.D. scholar and would like to publish a summary of your research in this section, please share a summary and authorisation to publish it. For submission, and any question on this initiative, write to us at instantscholar@ Read full pdf: Is your child ready for the careers of tomorrow? Enroll now and take advantage of our early bird offer! Spaces are limited.
IOL News
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Tamara Dey steps up as 'godmother' for South Africa's inaugural Lady of the House demo contest
Tamara Dey joins fellow artists Gigi Lamayne, Namakau and Shamiso as a 'Godmother' for the Lady of the House (LOTH) South African demo contest. Image: Supplied. Mzansi songstress Tamara Dey is taking on a new and significant role as the godmother in the first-ever Lady of the House (LOTH) South African demo contest, aimed at uplifting women and non-binary creatives in the dance music industry. The LOTH contest is part of a global initiative that aims to spotlight underrepresented talents and to foster creativity in spaces historically limited by systemic barriers. "Reflecting on my journey, I'm reminded of the powerful women who welcomed and supported me when I entered this industry," shared Dey. "In an era where South Africa continues to wrestle with questions of safety, equity and inclusion, I feel an even greater responsibility to uplift our voices – especially those of the women and LGBTQ+ community who have shaped dance music culture from the beginning." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The contest also features a panel of other influential figures, including fellow godmothers Gigi Lamayne, Namakau Star, Shamiso and ambassador Money Badoo, who will collectively select four deserving emerging artists to receive transformative opportunities. These include a full release with Lady of the House Records, access to professional networks, DJ and production tools, scholarships to prestigious music academies and invaluable mentorship from industry veterans. "I am honoured to join other iconic South African artists in selecting the winners for the South African leg of the Lady of the House demo competition. "I will be on the lookout for world-class production and songwriting that truly captures the heart and soul of South Africa's story and culture through dance music," Dey said. Laila McKenzie, the founder of Lady of the House, heralds Dey's involvement as a beacon of support for this movement.
Associated Press
31-01-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
LOTH Appoints Alex Ashworth as New Business Development Director in Columbus
COLUMBUS, OHIO / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2025 / LOTH, a leader in workplace design and office furniture solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alex Ashworth as its new Business Development Director for the Columbus region. With a strong background in commercial leasing and real estate advisory, Alex brings a wealth of experience in driving business growth, cultivating client relationships, and developing strategic partnerships-key skills that will support LOTH's future growth Logo In this role, Alex will focus on strengthening LOTH's presence in the Columbus market by prospecting new business opportunities, expanding its network, and fostering long-term client relationships. She will collaborate closely with key stakeholders, including A&D firms, commercial real estate professionals, and construction teams, to position LOTH as a trusted partner in designing functional and dynamic spaces that drive success. 'We are excited to welcome Alex to the LOTH team,' said Lorene Haimerl, Vice President of Sales, Corporate and New Business Development. 'She brings an extensive network with strong industry relationships which are poised to help drive new leads and open doors for our highly talented sales consultants. Her strategic focus on building connections and creating new opportunities will play a key role in fueling our growth. As Alex will be reporting directly to me, we look forward to the positive impact she'll make as we continue to expand our reach and enhance our sales efforts.' LOTH's ongoing expansion into the Columbus market is a key component of the company's strategic vision for sustainable growth. This includes adding talented team members to meet the rising demand fueled by new construction and the influx of new businesses in the region, as well as exciting initiatives like the renovation of its Grandview Work Studio. These efforts will not only enhance LOTH's ability to deliver customized solutions but also provide a state-of-the-art space that reflects the company's commitment to fostering collaboration, increasing productivity, and driving organizational success. As LOTH continues to grow, it is also broadening its service reach into surrounding metropolitan areas, further strengthening its role as a leader in designing innovative spaces that support the success of local businesses. About LOTH: Since 1891, LOTH has become a trusted partner for creating inspiring workplaces across the Cincinnati, Columbus, Northern Kentucky and Southeastern Indiana regions. Specializing in the design of dynamic environments, LOTH offers a comprehensive range of services, including curating office furniture, space planning, move management and technology integration. As an authorized Steelcase dealer, LOTH collaborates with leading brands to deliver innovative solutions that foster collaboration, boost productivity, and enhance employee well-being. Serving industries such as corporate, healthcare, education, life sciences, hospitality, and government, LOTH is committed to creating adaptable environments that support long-term success.
