Philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and pedagogical technique

Changes in the aims and methods of the philosophy of mind have occurred in recent decades. In particular, computer simulations have emerged as a means of constructing empirically and conceptually defensible theories of mind. This article explores pedagogical innovations that may be necessitated by these changes. One question raised is whether hands--on teaching of simulation methods should be a standard part of philosophy of mind courses. These courses, because of a increasing empirical orientation, are becoming more interdisciplinary, and certain consequences of this development are elaborated here.