Definition:
Perspective can be understood as a complex, emergent phenomenon that arises from the interaction between cognitive processes, experiences and the current context. It represents a specific point of view or interpretation of reality that is influenced by individual inner representations, cultural imprints and situational factors.
Discussion:
- Cognitive foundations:
An individual’s perspective is based on cognitive processes that generate and manipulate internal representations of the world. Kosslyn et al (2006) argue that mental images play a central role in cognitive processing and form the basis for complex thought processes [1]. These internal images are not static but dynamic and are constantly updated by new information and experiences.
- Emergence of perspective:
Perspective can be seen as an emergent phenomenon that arises from the interaction of various cognitive and emotional processes. In their concept of ‘enactivism’, Varela et al. (1991) describe how cognition and perception emerge through the active interaction of the organism with its environment [2]. In this sense, perspective is not simply a passive reception of information, but an active construction process.
- Entropy and information processing:
From an information-theoretical perspective, the development of a perspective can be understood as a process of entropy reduction. Friston (2010) argues with his ‘Free Energy Principle’ that cognitive systems strive to minimise uncertainty (entropy) in their predictions about the environment [3]. An individual’s perspective could therefore be understood as an optimised representation that minimises the perceived entropy of the environment.
- Synchronisation and social perspectives:
Perspectives do not develop in isolation, but in social contexts. Tomasello et al (2005) discuss how shared attention and shared intentionality are fundamental to the development of human cognition [4]. The synchronisation of perspectives in social groups can be seen as an emergent phenomenon that contributes to the formation of group identities and cultural norms.
- Dynamics of perspective:
Perspectives are not static, but are subject to constant dynamics. In their theory of dynamic systems, Thelen and Smith (1994) argue that cognitive development should be understood as a continuous, self-organising process [5]. Similarly, the evolution of perspectives can be seen as a dynamic process that is influenced by new experiences, interactions and reflections.
- Multistability and change of perspective:
Complex dynamic systems can have multiple stable states (attractors). Kelso (1995) describes how systems can switch between these states [6]. Similarly, changes in perspective can be understood as transitions between different stable cognitive states that are triggered by new information or contexts.
- Cultural and historical dimensions:
Perspectives are deeply embedded in cultural and historical contexts. Vygotsky (1978) emphasised the importance of socio-cultural factors for cognitive development [7]. Accordingly, an individual’s perspective is not only the result of individual cognitive processes, but also a product of cultural traditions and historical developments.
- Neurological basics:
Recent research in neuroscience provides insights into the neurological foundations of perspective. Damasio (2010) argues that the sense of self that shapes our perspective is based on complex neural mappings that integrate bodily states, emotions and cognitive processes [8].
- Perspectives in artificial intelligence:
The development of AI systems that can take multiple perspectives into account is a current challenge. Lake et al. (2017) argue that human-like AI systems must be able to form flexible mental models and switch between different perspectives [9].
Summary:
The ‘perspective’ proves to be a complex, multidimensional concept that is closely linked to processes of emergence, entropy reduction and synchronisation. It arises from the interplay of individual cognitive processes, social interactions and cultural influences. Understanding perspectives as dynamic, emergent phenomena opens up new avenues for research into human cognition, social dynamics and artificial intelligence.
This integrative approach to perspectives has far-reaching implications for various areas, from education and conflict resolution to the development of AI systems. It emphasises the need to consider and respect the diversity and dynamics of human perspectives while seeking ways to create a common ground of understanding.
Literature:
[1] Kosslyn, S. M., Thompson, W. L., & Ganis, G. (2006). The case for mental imagery. Oxford University Press.
[2] Varela, F. J., Thompson, E., & Rosch, E. (1991). The embodied mind: Cognitive science and human experience. MIT Press.
[3] Friston, K. (2010). The free-energy principle: a unified brain theory?. Nature reviews neuroscience, 11(2), 127-138.
[4] Tomasello, M., Carpenter, M., Call, J., Behne, T., & Moll, H. (2005). Understanding and sharing intentions: The origins of cultural cognition. Behavioral and brain sciences, 28(5), 675-691.
[5] Thelen, E., & Smith, L. B. (1994). A dynamic systems approach to the development of cognition and action. MIT Press.
[6] Kelso, J. A. S. (1995). Dynamic patterns: The self-organization of brain and behavior. MIT Press.
[7] Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.
[8] Damasio, A. (2010). Self comes to mind: Constructing the conscious brain. Pantheon.
[9] Lake, B. M., Ullman, T. D., Tenenbaum, J. B., & Gershman, S. J. (2017). Building machines that learn and think like people. Behavioral and brain sciences, 40.