Correlation, Canalization, and Cognitive Models

Abstract

Using the examples of simple and canonical correlation, this chapter demonstrates how cognitive variables accrete to form a stable cognitive model that provides a control on overloaded and chaotic thinking. However, cognitive models are constantly changing since the exterior environment is changing, and so as a cognitive model is modified, it maintains a basic stability by controlling the degree of relationship between new variables and the cognitive model. Once a functional model is created, both individuals and cultures often become fixed and are reluctant to allow further cognitive changes. This process called canalization shows how human thinking restricts creativity and the introduction of new ideas. Middle Eastern, Chinese, Western European, and Polynesian cultures created significantly different methods of constructing boats even though all solved the same problem of safely crossing oceans, Each method became crystalized in that culture and never incorporated successful foreign ideas. Examples of that cultural disparity are discussed.