The Evolution of Intelligent Systems: How Molecules became Minds

by K. Richardson

Overview

How could something as seemingly transcendental as the human mind have arisen from far simpler material beginnings? This book provides a comprehensive overview of evolution from pre-life and early life forms through increasing complexity to advanced cognitive systems using a new framework based on dynamic systems theory.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780230252493
Publisher:	Palgrave Macmillan UK
Publication date:	10/20/2010
Edition description:	2010
Pages:	234
Product dimensions:	5.60(w) x 8.60(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

KEN RICHARDSON was formerly Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Human Development and Learning, The Open University, UK (now retired). He has a wide experience in researching and teaching in brain biology, cognitive sciences and human development. He has published around 100 journal papers and is author of Understanding Psychology; Understanding Intelligence; Origins of Human Potential: Evolution, Development and Psychology; Models of Cognitive Development and The Making of Intelligence.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations vi

Preface viii

1 Why So Complex? 1

2 Fit for What? 19

3 Intelligent Life 36

4 Bodily Intelligence 56

5 Evolution of Development 69

6 Intelligent Eye and Brain 90

7 From Neurons to Cognition 112

8 Cognitive Functions 135

9 Social Intelligence 160

10 Intelligent Humans 171

Notes 199

Index 229