Emergic Memories: A Model of Emergent Properties

Abstract

In physics, there is no mystery behind emergence (Crane 2001). Explanatory bridges between levels of analysis are mostly complete. Emergence is considered as “weak” and the a-priori unpredictability of these bridges is considered an epistemological problem – not ontological. It is noteworthy that the current analytical toolset of physics is based on behaviours and continuous change – a process metaphysics (PM). In cognition, their are no accepted bridges between the mental and physical divide and “strong” ontological versions of emergence remain viable. Without empirical support, rational thought has produced a proliferating plethora of possible flavours and sources of emergence. It is noteworthy that the analytical tradition of cognition is based on static substances with properties – a substance metaphysics (SM). Purpose of the Emergic Memory Model Ground debate in simple (yet empirically real) parts, wholes & relations Basis for comparison and discussion among competing hypotheses Generate new insights and hypothesis Emergence is due to epistemological incompleteness and objectification errors Based on change, yet has substance-like properties A substance/process metaphysics hybrid The locus of emergic debate?