Rethinking cognitive architecture: A heterarchical network of different types of information processors

Abstract

Rather than seeking a common architecture for cognitive processing, this paper argues that we should recognize that the brain employs multiple information processing structures. Many of these are manifest in brain areas outside the neocortex such as the hypothalamus, brain stem pattern generators, the basal ganglia, and various nuclei releasing neuromodulators. Rather than employing one mode of information processing, the brain employs multiple modes integrated in a heterarchical network. These in turn affect processing within the neocortex and together with the neocortex regulate vertebrate behavior, including human. Cognitive science can better understand human information processing by attending to the plurality of information-processing architectures employed in the brain.

Keywords

• basal ganglia
• cognitive architectures
• heterarchical networks
• hypothalamus
• pattern generators
• neuromodulators