Protocognition

Protocognition refers to the basic cognitive processes that underlie more complex thought. It encompasses the fundamental abilities necessary for perceiving, attending to, and interacting with the environment. These foundational processes are considered to be the building blocks upon which higher-level cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning, and problem-solving, are constructed. Examples of protocognitive abilities include sensory processing, the capacity to detect changes, and the ability to orient oneself in space and time. These processes are often implicit and operate automatically, forming the substrate for conscious awareness and deliberate cognitive operations. Research in this area often draws from fields like neuroscience, psychology, and artificial intelligence, seeking to understand the minimal requirements for cognitive function. The concept suggests that even the simplest forms of information processing exhibit a rudimentary form of self-awareness or awareness of the environment, distinguishing them from purely mechanical or reactive systems. Understanding protocognition is crucial for comprehending the origins of cognition and for developing more sophisticated artificial intelligence systems.