An interesting posting, Michael, with several distinct topics. In this
response I'll address only some lines that are pertinent to this sub-thread,
which
I'll now bring to the fore by updating the "Subject" above.
Remember, this sub thread started with these remarks by William:
"I don't think we can talk anymore of sequential process in consciousness,
cognition, etc. . . to say we respond emotionally first or last is meaningless
(except maybe in subconscious brain stem activity."
I suggested it's hard for me NOT to believe in a sequential process in most
mind/brain activity. The neurologists' analyses of fear response that I have
read -- including some by Joseph LeDoux, whom Luc cites -- regularly suggests
sequential process. For a crude example: retinal input is processed and only
then delivered to the amygdala, which only then triggers memory -- i.e.
"recognition" -- which only then triggers a would-be apt emotion.
So Michael, they would say your first sentence doesn't have it quite right:
"Some kinds of raw sensory input immediately trigger built-in,
reflexive reactions."
It's not immediate. Even your own schematic presentation hints at sequence:
" Sharp new sound [door] => threat => run away
Rumble on the road => threat => run away"
Except that neurologists seem to be saying that your schematic leaves out
stages in the sequence of mind/brain activity.
Let's not forget that the grandfather Subject here was a request for a
description of any specific discoveries of neurologists that have been useful
or
enlightening to creators or contemplators of "art". The closest anything in
this
sub-thread comes is to observe that our "feelings" often depend on associated
memories stirred by the new input. I myself find this not new, and not he
lpful.
More on the rest of your posting in a subse quent posting (as my mind
sequentially processes the input from you!)
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