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Multi-use and constraints from original use

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 October 2010

Justin A. Jungé  and
Daniel C. Dennett
Justin A. Jungé
Affiliation:
Center for Cognitive Studies, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155. ddennett@tufts.edujunge@wjh.harvard.eduhttp://www.tufts.edu
Daniel C. Dennett
Affiliation:
Center for Cognitive Studies, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155. ddennett@tufts.edujunge@wjh.harvard.eduhttp://www.tufts.edu
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Abstract

Anderson's theory is plausible and largely consistent with the data. However, it remains underspecified on several fronts, and we highlight areas for potential improvement. Reuse is described as duplicating a functional component, preserving one function and tinkering to add another function. This is a promising model, but Anderson neglects other reasonable alternatives and we highlight several. Evidence cited in support of reuse fails to uniquely support it among a broader set of multi-use theories. We suggest that a more stringent criterion for direct support of reuse may be satisfied by focusing on previous adaptive functions (original use).

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 33 , Issue 4 , August 2010 , pp. 277 - 278
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2010

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References

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