4.1

Information processing at its core reminds me of computers.  That analogy is used often in information processing literature.  If humans are like computers, than we rely on certain input, receptors, translators, storage systems, and output to function correctly.  Pinker and the third lecture discussed how humans rely on sensory input to make sense of the world.  However, we have to be careful because sometimes our sensory perception does not match up with reality.  Fortunate for us, we have a strong computer for a brain that is able to help us figure out that our perception may not line up with reality and even help us shift our perception as necessary.

Pinker also spent a great deal of time talking about language.  We usually view language development as something that sets humans apart from other intelligent animals and computers.  Our ability to express thoughts is seen as unique.  Pinker indicated, though, that language is not the best measure of thought because thought is not limited by linguistic abilities.  For me, this reminds me of the issue of determining a student’s abilities when the student does not have strong language skills.  It is difficult to assess intellect without the use of language.