Inside embodiment – what means embodiment to radical constructivists?

Abstract

Purpose

This work explores the consequences of Heinz von Foerster's claim in the context of linear signal theory, embodiment and the creation of artifacts that the nervous system is operationally closed. It operates only in contact to itself.

Design/methodology/approach

In linear signal theory all transfer functions can be directly associated with the neural activity where also the environment is described by neural activity. The phenomenon of embodiment is interpreted from the perspective of the nervous system, thus from the inner perspective. To identify inside and outside an organism must learn to identify the disturbances which are only in the environment. This can be done by anticipatory learning.

Findings

Questions whether the nervous system is able to distinguish between inside and outside. Mathematically stays in the field of linear control theory and tries to give this mathematical formalism a new meaning in the light of radical constructivism. Gives some guidelines how to apply the highly theoretical claims to more practical situations.

Originality/value

Provides further evidence of the important contribution to the theory of constructivism made by Heinz von Foerster.

Citation

Porr, B. and Wörgötter, F. (2005), "Inside embodiment – what means embodiment to radical constructivists?", Kybernetes, Vol. 34 No. 1/2, pp. 105-117. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920510575762