nongelforming

Nongelforming is a term used in some philosophical, cognitive science, and artificial intelligence discussions to denote processes or states in which an entity does not develop or maintain a stable, coherent self-model or self-concept over time. It is not a standard term with a single definition and is used variably across disciplines.

Etymology and scope: The word blends non- with self-forming and appears in contexts ranging from debates about personal identity to analyses of AI and adaptive systems. In philosophy, nongelforming may be invoked to describe theories that deny a persistent, unified self. In cognitive science and AI, it can refer to agents or systems that fail to sustain a persistent self-model, instead updating or fragmenting identity in short cycles.

Philosophical use: Nongelforming relates to broader discussions about the continuity or fragmentation of the self, including bundle theories, no-self (anatta) concepts, and decentered or fluid conceptions of identity. It serves as a label for positions that emphasize instability or lack of a single enduring self.

Applications in AI and cognitive systems: In artificial intelligence, nongelforming describes agents with rapidly changing self-models or without a stable agent identity. This can enhance adaptability or responsiveness to new tasks but may complicate long-term goal persistence, accountability, and coherent behavior over time.

Criticism and status: The term is not widely standardized, and definitions vary. Some scholars view nongelforming as redundant or confusing, preferring established terms such as no-self, decentered self, dynamic self-concept, or self-model theory of consciousness.

See also: no-self, personal identity, self-model theory, dynamic self-concept, agent theory, bundle theory. Further reading can be found in literature on no-self (anatta) and on theories of self-models in consciousness studies.