Distributed Cognition Not only is knowledge distributed, but cognition is also distributed

Not only is knowledge distributed, but cognition is also distributed.

Not only is our knowledge distributed, but our cognition is also distributed.

In other words, we don’t just think inside our heads. Other people and objects are also involved in cognition. Consciously or subconsciously, these other objects affect our thinking and decision-making.

A simple example of distributed cognition is when we have to perform a mathematical calculation.

First, you may ask a colleague to help you clarify the question.

Second, when you make the calculation, you may use paper and pencil to aid your memory or involve an electronic calculator.

You rarely perform the calculation unaided in some way. As a child, you may have even used your fingers.

Knowledge and cognition are not confined to our brain – other people and objects within our environment function as a part of an extended mind.

Detailed Resources

• Article: Embodied Cognition by Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (2021)

Posts that link to this post

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