Functions of the Mind

A detailed Summary of Functions of the Mind

The complexity of the mind has intrigued and inspired philosophers for as long as humanity. How does it work? This question is not answered by equations and such as most conventional problem solving machines. Our own thought processes can be used to explain input and output responses from our senses to our reactions to those senses. This particular function of the mind, input/output capabilities, is one complexity that can be compared and related to real world machines that function in such a manner. This essay will examine whether it is plausible to compare the mind's computational process to a conventional machine whose similar function is to manage input/output information.

A revolutionary invention by engineer James Watt in the 18th century was a governor control that regulated steam output so an engine may maintain a constant and steady speed. The governor is able to regulate consistency by decreasing or increasing steam output simultaneously as the engine speeds or slows. Attached to the rotating part of the engine, the governor spins so that the centrifugal force will either cause the governor to decrease or increase steam output proportional to the engine speed. The similarity in input/output respo

The fundamental element of the mind is the ability to interpret symbols. This ability is not unique to humans as exhibited by every form of life with a brain. Everything we do requires a computational thought process whether we realize it or not. Though our reactions to our environment may seem instantaneous, there is always an input/output process that regulates our reactions. It can be concluded that the computational behavior of the mind cannot be similar to the processing of the Watt governor since to say so would mean we are one with the environment. Our ability to adapt and evolve is the result of our gift to interpret and respond to our surroundings. This reaction enables us to understand our environment and this is why we can experience what we call life.

The mind functions computationally and this characteristic entails the use of representation and symbols. Information is received and is then represented throughout the cyclical process so that each step of the process can work from the previous step. This functioning can be termed as homuncular because each step is dependent upon the previous. If you omit any step of the computational process, the system will not be able to complete its cycle. Therefore the mind's process is termed homuncular since it is essential for each representation to be present for an appropriate output response. Watt's governor does not have this dependence on representations since there is not a starting point to the cycle of information. Imagine when the engine slows then the centrifugal force decreases so that the adjustment is already in motion to allow more steam. As

Some common words found in the essay are:
Van Gelder, James Watt, , engine speed, steam output, van gelder, computational process, centrifugal force, watt's governor, termed homuncular, output response, decrease steam, dependent previous,

Approximate Word count = 1107
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

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