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Volume 7 Issue 3 (March, 2019)

Original Articles

The Embodied Mind: The Role of the Body in Cognitive and Behavioral Processes
Venkateswar Pujari

The concept of the embodied mind highlights the critical role of the body in cognitive and behavioral processes. Traditional approaches to understanding the mind have predominantly focused on the brain as the central locus of cognition, relegating the body to a mere peripheral structure. However, emerging evidence from various disciplines, including neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy, supports the notion that the body actively shapes and influences cognitive functions. This review paper aims to explore the multifaceted ways in which the body contributes to cognition and behavior. By examining the role of sensorimotor processes, emotional embodiment, and social interactions, we demonstrate the inseparable link between the mind and the body. Sensorimotor processes involve the integration of sensory information and motor actions, enabling organisms to interact with their environment. The embodied mind perspective suggests that sensorimotor processes not only facilitate action but also shape cognition. Emotions, integral to human experience, are not solely mental states but are intricately tied to bodily experiences. Social interactions play a fundamental role in human development and cognition, with the body's ability to perceive and interpret social cues grounding social cognition. This review paper also discusses the implications of the embodied mind perspective in various domains, such as education, therapy, and robotics. Understanding the dynamic interplay between the body and the mind is crucial for developing a comprehensive model of human cognition and behavior. By embracing the embodied mind perspective, we gain a deeper understanding of the inseparable link between the mind and the body, highlighting the complex interplay that shapes human cognition and behavior.

 
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