Theory of mind is the ability to attribute mental states—beliefs, intents, desires, pretending, knowledge, etc.—to oneself and others and to understand that others have beliefs, desires, and intentions that are different from one's own. Deficits occur in people with autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder, as well as neurotoxicity due to alcohol abuse. Though there are philosophical approaches to issues raised in such discussions, the theory of mind as such is distinct from the philosophy of mind.
Read more about Theory Of Mind: Defining Theory of Mind, Philosophical Roots, Theory of Mind Development, Empirical Investigation, Theory of Mind Deficits, Non-human Theory of Mind
Famous quotes containing the words theory and/or mind:
“It is not enough for theory to describe and analyse, it must itself be an event in the universe it describes. In order to do this theory must partake of and become the acceleration of this logic. It must tear itself from all referents and take pride only in the future. Theory must operate on time at the cost of a deliberate distortion of present reality.”
—Jean Baudrillard (b. 1929)
“If we find the answer to that, it would be the ultimate triumph of human reason—for then we would know the mind of God.”
—Stephen Hawking (b. 1942)