心智模擬的知識論:記憶與想像如何形塑生活

What makes memories memories? We have all had the experience of remembering something incorrectly. Can such memory errors still give rise to knowledge or be epistemically beneficial? Indeed, in the case of complete confabulations, is that still memory, or merely imagination? Imagination makes us free and allows our mind to run wild. However, we also rely on imagination for real life, including practical things like planning for future trips, thinking about what would have happened if a past decision were made differently, and brainstorming new ideas for scientific projects. How does imagination give rise to knowledge? The aim of this course is to introduce you to the epistemological issues concerning mental simulation in philosophy. Mental simulation refers to the cognitive capacity to go beyond perception to represent what is not present in the immediate environment. Memory and imagination are typical examples of mental simulation. “Epistemological issues” are issues concerning knowledge, understanding and wisdom. The most general question we will ask is whether we can get knowledge, understanding, or wisdom via mental simulation, and if so, how. More specific topics to be discussed include: The different epistemic roles of mental simulation How mental simulation are involved in scientific practices and decision-making in life Self and self-knowledge in remembering and imagining How to understand delusions and confabulations Comparing mental simulation with virtual reality How technology can assist our memory and imagination Dreaming as imagining, hallucinating, or mind-wandering? By examining the literature and arguments, you will familiarize yourself with these issues and develop the ability to analyze and be critical to philosophical arguments.

Discussions and participation: 20% Summaries and comments on reading assignments: 40% Term paper: 40%

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