(2021) “How do scientists criticize the computer metaphor of the brain? Using an argumentative pattern for reconstructing resistance to metaphor” by Finsen, A.B., Steen, G.J. & Wagemans, J.H.M.

The central metaphor in cognitive science is the computer metaphor of thebrain. In previous work, we reconstructed the metaphor in a novel way,guided by the assumption that it functions as an explanatory hypothesis. Wedeveloped an argumentative pattern for justifying scienti󿬁c explanations inwhich this metaphor functions as a standpoint supported by argumentationcontaining abduction and analogy. In this paper, we use the argumentativepattern as a heuristic to reconstruct recent scienti󿬁c criticisms against thecomputer metaphor. The pattern generates expectations about the nature of these criticisms, and we show those expectations to be met in most respects. We then discuss the extent to which our 󿬁ndings render the reconstructionoffered by the argumentative pattern feasible. A central question emergingfrom our analysis is whether the computer metaphor can be adequately characterized as an explanatory hypothesis based on abduction. We suggestsome possibilities for future lines of inquiry in this respect

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