Description
Book SynopsisIn The Sequential Imperative William Edmondson explains how deep study of linguistics – from phonetics to pragmatics – can be the basis for understanding the organization of behaviour in any organism with a brain. The work demonstrates that Cognitive Science needs to be anchored in a linguistic setting. Only then can Cognitive Scientists reach out to reconsider the nature of consciousness and to appreciate the functionality of all brains. The core functionality of the brain – any brain, any species, any time – is delivery and management of the unavoidable bi-directional transformation between brain states and activity – the Sequential Imperative. Making it all work requires some general cognitive principles and close attention to detail. The book sets out the case in broad terms but also incorporates significant detail where necessary.
Table of ContentsPreface List of Illustrations Introduction Part 1: The Sequential Imperative and the Functional Specification of the Brain Introduction to Part 1 1 The Sequential Imperative – I 2 The Sequential Imperative – II 3 General Cognitive Principles Part 2: Serving the Sequential Imperative Introduction to Part 2 4 Structure in Language 5 Non-linear Phonology and Beyond 6 Building a Model Part 3: Behaviour and Evolution – on and off Planet Introduction to Part 3 7 Management of the Sequential Imperative 8 Issues in Evolution and Language 9 Language and Consciousness: What is it like to be an ETI? Afterword References Index
