Networks in Cognitive Science

TL;DR

This paper reviews how network theory, originally from complex systems science, has been integrated into Cognitive Science to better understand the organization and dynamics of cognitive and behavioral processes.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in applying network theory across various domains within Cognitive Science.

Findings

Network theory offers new insights into cognitive organization.

Application of network analysis reveals system-level properties of cognition.

Integration of network science enhances understanding of behavioral dynamics.

Abstract

Networks of interconnected nodes have long played a key role in Cognitive Science, from artificial neural net- works to spreading activation models of semantic mem- ory. Recently, however, a new Network Science has been developed, providing insights into the emergence of global, system-scale properties in contexts as diverse as the Internet, metabolic reactions, and collaborations among scientists. Today, the inclusion of network theory into Cognitive Sciences, and the expansion of complex- systems science, promises to significantly change the way in which the organization and dynamics of cognitive and behavioral processes are understood. In this paper, we review recent contributions of network theory at different levels and domains within the Cognitive Sciences.