Cognitive Science

From MWCSWiki

From Craig Vasey - Another starting point

We propose building out the philosophy program with two new positions in Philosophy of Mind, to establish the foundation for a future Certificate Program in Cognitive Science. This idea has grown from discussions with the Dept of Computer Science about joint interests in artificial intelligence, from Vasey's course (The Embodied Mind), from Ambuel's interest in Varela (cognitive science and Buddhist Studies), and from Aminrazavi's course on Neurotheology. Cognitive Science is the new, "hot" direction for interdisciplinary study, and needs the cooperation of other programs; minimally, UMW can already supply the following three additional courses: our Biology Dept already teaches Neurobiology, Psychology offers Biocognition, Linguistics offers Intro to Psycholinguistics. Computer Science would need an appointment in artificial intelligence. The two positions in Philosophy of Mind will allow the necessary diversity of philosophical perspectives in and on cognitive science to provide the foundation of the program. We would encourage other departments to increase their relevant offerings or help us identify relevant courses already on the books.