An Architecture of the Mind

An Architecture of the Mind proposes a mathematically logical and rigorous theory of lived experience, and a comprehensive and coherent theory of psychology. It is also remarkably simple. Building on the core proposition that the mind is a network structure, it proposes a theory of the psychological process as operating within and upon that structure, and a theory of behaviour as determined by that process.

The theory presents a view of the mind which reveals a new perspective on the process of reasoning in thinking and how it may coexist with processes more akin to simple rule-following and computation. It allows us to understand the role and influence of social influences in the psychological process by revealing their role in and influence on mental networks. It reveals the place of motivations in the psyche as complexes in mental networks from whence aesthetics, preference and value judgements arise and demonstrates their necessity for behaviour. This book is especially useful for the perspective it offers on behavioural change. It reveals the conditions under which traditional economic theories of incentives will be appropriate, and the conditions under which they will not be.

This book draws on psychology, social science, cultural science, neuroscience and economics to offer an interdisciplinary contribution which resists the tendency for disciplines to become over-specialised and fragmented. It will be of interest to any interested in the functioning of the human mind and the government of human behaviour.

Brendan Markey-Towley’s opera prima not only provides a fresh look on the crucial connection between cognitive psychology and the social sciences, but does it fearlessly and aware that the social sciences’ analytical methods can be valuable for the development of theoretical psychology. This is exemplary.

Enrico Petracca, University of Neuchâtel

Dr. Brendan Markey-Towler is a philosopher, psychological scientist and economist. He received his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Queensland in 2017, having researched there under Professors John Foster and Peter Earl and at University College London under Professor Michelle Baddeley. He lives in Brisbane, Queensland with his family.

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