Going Beyond the Here and Now - Counterfactual Simulation in Human Cognition

Explore the fascinating world of counterfactual simulation in human cognition through this 59-minute Stanford University seminar. Delve into how humans go beyond the present moment, contemplating past events, future possibilities, and alternative outcomes. Discover the Counterfactual Simulation Model (CSM) and its application to understanding intuitive perceptions of both physical and psychological realms. Learn how this model predicts causal judgments in various scenarios, from collision events to complex multi-causal situations. Examine the role of eye movements in revealing cognitive processes underlying these judgments. Gain insights into how counterfactual thinking influences assessments of responsibility, helpfulness, and the impact of actions. Led by Assistant Professor Tobias Gerstenberg, this interdisciplinary exploration combines perspectives from psychology, philosophy, linguistics, computer science, and legal studies to illuminate higher-level cognitive phenomena.