The grand theory. This presentation illustrates a monist constructivist theory.

In the first part of this presentation, an evolutionary perspective on cognitive development will be given. The common theme between all different cultures are explanatory principles, particularly transcending the explanatory principles of souls and gods. Within this context, different possibilities of arriving at monist approaches will be discussed.

In a second part, several quotes of Lev Vygotsky, the father of social constructivism are collected and put into context. Key concepts are isolated that are important building blocks for a monist constructivist theory. Their understanding is necessary to build part three, but it is an in-depth section that may also be skipped at own risk by people with too little time.

In part three, a model of monist constructivism will be developed, including views on paradigms, epistemology, and identity. Causal relationships and the role of consciousness are explained, focusing on epistemological transitions. In the end, an example is given how chaos science may help reframe thinking with regard to cognitive theories.

The presentation contains a narrative that is also available as a separate file. It builds heavily on the content of the presentation and is not recommended for standlone consumption.

Total playing time: ca. 50 minutes.

Stoll, J. D. (2017). An Illustration of Monist Constructivism - Presentation
An illustration of Monist Constructivism, combining materialist and social constructivism approaches. Presentation file.
[Download PPT | 32.69 MB]

Stoll, J. D. (2017). An Illustration of Monist Constructivism - Narrative
An illustration of monist constructivism, combining approaches of materialist and social constructivism. Narrative file.
[Download DOC | 0.05 MB]