In defense of phenomenological approaches to social cognition: interacting with the critics

Authors

Shaun Gallagher, University of Memphis

RIS ID

89077

Publication Details

Gallagher, S. 2012, 'In defense of phenomenological approaches to social cognition: interacting with the critics', Review of Philosophy and Psychology, vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 187-212.

Abstract

I clarify recently developed phenomenological approaches to social cognition. These are approaches that, drawing on developmental science, social neuroscience, and dynamic systems theory, emphasize the involvement of embodied and enactive processes together with communicative and narrative practices in contexts of intersubjective understanding. I review some of the evidence that supports these approaches. I consider a variety of criticisms leveled against them, and defend the role of phenomenology in the explanation of social cognition. Finally, I show how these phenomenological approaches can solve the “starting problem” of social cognition.