About Cognitive Vicious Circles

Abstract

The author reveals the numerous vicious circles in which cognitive activity seems to be entangled. Some are well-known and much discussed, others less widely publicized. Reflection on them leads to the conclusion that they occur more in the mental representation of cognition than in its specific acts. Furthermore, it is impossible to rationally validate cognition as a whole. This can only be done with respect to its individual fragments (excluding the least advanced, semi-instinctive ones).