PPIG: Philosophy, Psychology, and Informatics Group
Speaker: Polaris Koi (University of Turku)
Title: Explaining interpersonal and diachronic differences in self-control
Abstract: What explains interpersonal and diachronic differences in self-control? In this talk, I defend a functionalist approach to self-control and propose conceiving of differences in self-control as analogous to differences in mobility: as something modulated by inherent traits and environmental supports and constraints in interaction. This joint effect of individual (neuro)biology and environmental factors is best understood in terms of access to self-control behaviours. I sketch an account of access as including three criteria: means, awareness, and non-excessive effort. The extent to which these criteria are realised varies interpersonally and diachronically. I also explore some of the main contributors to limited access to self-control – namely, psychiatric and somatic illness and socioeconomic status – and the implications of this theory for education, public policy, and criminology.
Further information
We are a group of researchers from diverse backgrounds in the above-mentioned groups (and beyond) who aim to gain an interdisciplinary yet deep understanding of the threads that bind the human mind and the world. In particular, this seminar series focuses on the nature of cognition, metacognition and social cognition. We’ll be tackling questions such as, what does it mean to think? What does it mean to think about thinking? And, what does it mean to think about one’s own thinking versus thinking about the thinking of other people? Please come along!
Can I be on the mailing list and send mails to the list?
Yes, you can. Just go to mailing list.
Contact details
PPIG: Philosophy, Psychology, and Informatics Group
Medical School Lecture Theatre G07 (Doorway 4), Medical School (Old Medical School), Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH8 9AG