On Serendip

The Brain's Images: Co-Constructing Reality and Self

Paul Grobstein
Bryn Mawr College
11th Annual Usability Professionals Association
11 August 2002


From the "reflex machine" to the brain as a semi-autonomous, evolving, creative agent
Beginning ...



The sphaghetti (switchboard, "reflex") box model


Image by Rene Descartes (1596-1650). Set framework for several centuries (and continuing) discussion: mind and body distinct things or same thing?

Where's autonomy? change? self?