Mathematical cognition: a case of enculturation

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    Abstract

    Most thinking about cognition proceeds on the assumption that we are born with our primary cognitive faculties intact and they simply need to mature, or be fine-tuned by learning mechanisms. Alternatively, a growing number of thinkers are aligning themselves to the view that a process of enculturation transforms our basic biological faculties. What evidence is there for this process of enculturation? A long period of development, learning-driven plasticity, and a cultural environment suffused with practices, symbols, and complex social interactions all speak in its favour. In this paper I will sketch in outline the commitments of the encultur- ated approach and then look at the case of mathematical cognition as a central example of enculturation. I will then defend the account against several objections.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationOpen MIND
    EditorsThomas Metzinger, Jennifer M. Windt
    Place of PublicationFrankfurt am Main
    PublisherMIND Group
    Pages1-20
    Number of pages20
    ISBN (Print)9783958570818, 9783958571020
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2015

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