Foundations of cognitive systems: exploring the architecture of mind and intelligence.
Cognitive processing May 1, 2026 DOI: 10.1007/s10339-025-01322-4 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractCognitive systems emerge as properties from chemical processes, evolving through dynamic progression from simple reactions to complex behaviors. Using the Dynamic Kinetic Stability (DKS) framework, the work traces this evolutionary trajectory, emphasizing self-organization, adaptability, and information processing in molecular networks. The transition from non-living chemical systems to living organisms is examined, showing how basic cognitive mechanisms evolve into neural networks and give rise to human consciousness. Sensory input and cognitive processes interact to shape awareness. Integrating evolutionary biology, cognitive science, and philosophy, the argument addresses both the hard and easy problems of consciousness, illuminating the relationship between neurochemical processes and mental phenomena.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Philosophy of mind |
| Keywords | Awareness Consciousness experience |
| Key finding | Proposes that cognitive capabilities arise from the dynamic progression of chemical systems, as described by the Dynamic Kinetic Stability framework, leading to self-organization, adaptability, and ultimately consciousness. |
Abstract
This article investigates the emergence of cognitive systems as properties arising from chemical processes, elucidating how cognitive capabilities evolve through the dynamic progression of these systems. Employing the Dynamic Kinetic Stability (DKS) framework, the study traces the evolutionary trajectory from simple chemical reactions to complex cognitive behaviors, emphasizing the emergence of self-organization, adaptability, and information processing within molecular networks. The research examines the transition from non-living chemical systems to living organisms, offering insights into how basic cognitive mechanisms evolve into advanced neural networks and, ultimately, give rise to human consciousness. The interplay between sensory input and cognitive processes in shaping awareness is analyzed, providing a comprehensive understanding of how experiences are formed and interpreted. By integrating perspectives from evolutionary biology, cognitive science, and philosophy, this study addresses both the "hard problem" and "easy problems" of consciousness, shedding light on the intricate relationship between neurochemical processes and mental phenomena.