Teleological reasoning in infancy: the naive theory of rational action

TitleTeleological reasoning in infancy: the naive theory of rational action
Publication TypeJournal Article
AuthorsGergely, Gy., and G. Csibra
Journal titleTrends in Cognitive Sciences
Year2003
Pages287 - 292
Volume7
Issue7
Abstract

Converging evidence demonstrates that one-year-olds interpret and draw inferences about other's goal-directed actions. We contrast alternative theories about how this early competence relates to our ability to attribute mental states to others. We propose that one-year-olds apply a non-mentalistic interpretational system, the 'teleological stance' to represent actions by relating relevant aspects of reality (action, goal-state and situational constraints) through the principle of rational action, which assumes that actions function to realize goal-states by the most efficient means available. We argue that this early inferential principle is identical to the rationality principle of the mentalistic stance – a representational system that develops later to guide inferences about mental states.

Languageeng
Notes

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Publisher linkhttp://web.ceu.hu/phil/csibra/papers/gergely_csibra.2003.pdf
Unit: 
Cognitive Development Center (CDC)