The Society of Mind
Marvin Minsky, in his book by the same title, suggests that our mind is not just a stimulus-response mind, but more like a Society of Mind. In his work on artificial intelligence, he develops a theory of agents within the brain, that working together as a whole (a society) produces the natural intelligence we humans possess. For more information see: http://web.media.mit.edu/~push/ExaminingSOM.html
The model of the mind presented in The Psychology of Positive Thinking similarly suggests that there are an infinite number of agents (neuron cell assemblies and cell assembly programs) that in themselves have no consciousness but together, as a Society, produce the effect that is our stream of consciousness, our mind.
What forms these agents, these neuron networks? The information we focus on through our senses. Thus it behooves us to attend to positive influences. As a man thinketh, so is he! (Proverbs 23:7)
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A Society of TWO Minds
Minsky further suggests that our society of mind is composed of more "societies of mind", at greater and lower levels.
Our brains have two hemispheres, each capable of indepenedant function, two "societies of mind", if you will. One mind is analytical, sees the world as it is. The other is emotional and creative, and pictures what could be.
The difference between these two minds, what we see, and what we picture: is what drives us. We are compelled to reduce that difference. Thus we have needs, wants and goals in our life. At the highest level we can have a Life's Goal, or Life Purpose.
This "difference engine" keeps us going, and indicates the direction we shall follow. You have the right, even the responsibility, to choose that Path. Choose wisely. See yesterday's post.
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