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Uncertain what uncertainty monitoring monitors

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 January 2004

Victoria M. Wilkins*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA19102
LeeAnn Cardaciotto*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA19102
Steven M. Platek*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA19102

Abstract:

Smith et al. present a model that they suggest may clarify aspects of the phylogenetic distribution of metacognition, based on observation of what they call uncertainty monitoring. Although they suggest that their model is supported by data collected using monkeys and dolphins, their interpretation that nonhuman animal behaviors parallel thought processes in humans may be unwarranted. The model presented by Smith et al. is inconsistent with current theories and empirical findings on the comparative aspects of metacognition. We present three oversights of the model and extend our critique to include a brief discussion of animal self-awareness, as well as current neuropsychological perspectives on metacognitive processing in humans.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2003

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