extended mind theory

Extended mind theory suggests that our mental processes—like thinking, memory, and problem-solving—are not confined solely within our brains. Instead, they can extend into tools, devices, and external environments we regularly use, such as notebooks, smartphones, or even shared social spaces. For example, when you jot notes or use a calculator, these external aids become part of your cognitive system. This perspective blurs the line between internal and external cognition, emphasizing that our minds are integrated with the tools and resources we engage with, effectively making them part of our mental processes.