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Contribution to Book
The Closed-Loop Dynamics of Cognitive Work
The Oxford Handbook of Cognitive Engineering
  • John M. Flach, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Kevin B. Bennett, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Richard J. Jagacinski
  • Max Mulder
  • Rene van Paassen
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
1-1-2013
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Abstract

This chapter provides a tutorial introduction to the logic of closed-loop systems. A series of examples is presented to illustrate the dynamics of closed-loop systems and to contrast the behavior of these systems with expectations suggested by the logic of open-loop causal systems. In particular, the examples show that “feedback” per se is insufficient to guarantee convergence on a target. The chapter explores some of the issues that must be addressed in order to determine whether closed-loop systems will be stable. Parallels to the phenomena of cognition in the wild are highlighted, and the case is made that the logic of closed-loop systems is an essential foundation for understanding the behavior of cognitive systems.

DOI
10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199757183.013.0002
Citation Information
John M. Flach, Kevin B. Bennett, Richard J. Jagacinski, Max Mulder, et al.. "The Closed-Loop Dynamics of Cognitive Work" The Oxford Handbook of Cognitive Engineering (2013) p. 19 - 35 ISSN: 9780199757183
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/john_flach/91/