Course details

8.3120

Cognitive Science in Cultural Perspective

 S
WS 2023 Dr. phil. habil. Annette Hohenberger Hybrid
3h/wk
6 ECTS 		B.Sc modules:
CS-BWP-CNP - Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology
KOGW-WPM-KNP - Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology
M.Sc modules:
CS-MWP-CNP - Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology

CS-BW - Bachelor elective course
CS-MW - Master elective course 		Wed: 9-12

Prerequisites: This course is suitable for BSc and MSc students. It has no formal prerequisites, however, having taken the Foundations of Cognitive Science or an introductory philosophy course would be beneficial. Content: The role of culture in cognitive science is a timely topic, given the cross-cultural scope of studying cognition, both in theory and in practise. Cultures are increasingly more in contact with each other through globalization and digitalization. Are there aspects of cognition that are universal and thus pertain to all human beings in the same way? Or are cognitive processes inherently shaped by cultural beliefs, norms, and practises? In this seminar, we will critically assess the role of culture in cognition and cognitive science. A central theme in this respect is the distinction between “Critical Thinking” and “Dialectical Thinking”. Critical Thinking is the ability to critically assess alternative accounts and to decide among them according to rational and logical means. (It is thought to be central in academic education and prevalent in individualistic Western societies). Dialectical thinking, on the other hand, includes multiple perspectives and tries to find a middle way between oppositions and even contradictions. (Is is thought to be prevalent in collectivistic Eastern societies). Hitherto critical thinking has been conceived of as an objective “skill” – however, dialectical thinking as a subjective “tendency”. We will address this classical distinction critically as well as dialectically. Other topics include the role of culture in perception, memory, language, cognitive development, and its influence on neurophysiological processes. Mode of conduct: This is a hybrid course. Students will make presentations on scheduled topics in class and discuss them with the audience. They are also encouraged to bring up relevant topics of their own interest, present and deepen them in joint or individual essay or video assignments.