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Learning and association
We began by looking at the associations of simple organisms. We went on to
describe "knowing" as the compare and contrast process of categorization. We
then toured the nervous system and described the motivators of behavior called
reflex, instinct, and instinctively motivated drives. To the uninitiated, this
may seem somewhat disjointed, but we are creating a path here with plenty of
bread crumbs. Ultimately, we are weaving together a tapestry of comprehension
out of which will emerge understanding of the nature of consciousness, the
universe and everything. The next thread in our fabric of knowledge explores
the way new information gets integrated into a nervous system. Understanding
how new information gets added will help us appreciate the way all information
is processed.
Aristotle said, "All men by nature desire to know. An indication of this is the
delight we take in our senses; for even apart from their usefulness they are
loved for themselves and above all others the sense of sight. For not only with
a view to action, but even when we are not going to do anything, we prefer sight
to almost everything else. The reason is that this, most of all the senses,
makes us know and brings to light many differences between things." Here
Aristotle equates learning with awareness of the "many differences between
things." Understanding how the nervous system "brings to light many differences
between things" for us begins with a definition of learning.
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