Non-neural cognition research (NnCR)

Research philosophy

We aim to examine specific capacities associated with cognition and intelligent behaviour (e.g., learning, memory, and decision-making) in non-neural organisms, including organisms such as pea plants and acellular slime mould. 

By investigating specific, measurable capacities across diverse taxa, we aim to analyse these cognition-like processes according to a comparative approach. This work is inherently multidisciplinary, and integrates perspectives from philosophy, biology, evolutionary theory, and cognitive science, as well as their interface with computational approaches to cognition, moving beyond debates about definitions to focus on empirically tractable questions.

Our research combines both theoretical and experimental approaches. Philosophically, we analyse foundational questions concerning the abilities and mechanisms underlying cognitive processes in both simple and complex organisms. Experimentally, we work with model systems such as slime mould to test specific hypotheses about the intelligent capacities of non-neural systems (e.g., associative learning, adaptive behaviours, and various forms of decision-making). This multidisciplinary framework allows us to connect conceptual insights with empirical findings, advancing our understanding of cognition as a distributed, adaptive phenomenon across biological systems.

Our community was founded to reflect our shared values of research integrity, diversity, and inclusivity. The research community we are building is a grass-roots network for researchers who share an interest in areas such as basal cognition and non-neural systems, providing a space to collaborate, share resources, and critically discuss ongoing projects. Through this network, we aim to support a new generation of researchers in pursuing open-ended, experimental research on non-neural cognition, bridging gaps in current knowledge across disciplines, and pushing the boundaries of traditional cognitive science. We invite anyone interested in this field to join us in exploring these questions and expanding our knowledge of cognition across biological systems. Together, we can maintain a culture of curiosity, rigour, and inclusivity that encourages innovative research and is capable of generating novel insights into the full diversity of cognitive phenomena we observe in nature.

Core principles:

  • Empirical engagement: We focus on conducting experiments and leaning on observations that can be quantified and replicated.
  • Specific capacities: Investigating distinct processes such as learning, problem-solving, and anticipation.
  • Phylogenetic breadth: Studying a wide range of organisms across different taxa, including plants, fungi, protists, and non-neural animals.
  • Methodological rigour: Employing robust experimental designs and analytical methods to ensure the validity of our findings.

Our commitment:

  • Transparency: Sharing our methodologies and results openly with the scientific community.
  • Collaboration: Engaging with researchers across disciplines to enrich our perspectives and approaches.
  • Critical engagement: Encouraging constructive criticism to refine our hypotheses and methods.

 

 

Join us!

We invite scientists, philosophers, and curious minds to engage with our research, provide feedback, and collaborate on uncovering the fascinating capabilities of non-neural organisms. This initiative particularly emphasises inclusivity by welcoming researchers from a range of backgrounds, particularly those historically underrepresented in philosophy and STEM fields.

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