The Function of Meaning in Cognitive Order Formation

The following theses on the function of meaning in multistable perception are discussed: (1) Every stimulus pattern allows more than one interpretation. Thus, every percept has more than one state of stability. (2) Multistable perception is switching between attractors in the neural network. (3) Meaning is constituted in a neural network by relations between attractors. Meaning does not refer to external things, but it is generated within the system. (4) Meaning is an order parameter of complex brain processes. Its function is the reduction of information and the stabilization of established attractors. (5) Meaning may influence the elementary structure from which it has emerged. It may cause decisions at bifurcation points.

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