Solving the interface problem: from intentions to motor representations through conceptual spaces

To explain intentional bodily action, we must address the Interface Problem: how propositional intentions and non-propositional motor representations integrate non-accidentally. Two requirements arise: matching, ensuring a motor representation corresponds to an intention despite format differences, and selection, choosing one motor representation among multiple matches. We combine Gärdenfors’ conceptual spaces with Bayesian inference to meet both requirements.

Authors

Institutions

Publication Details

Journal
Synthese
Published
2026-03-23
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11229-026-05489-x
Primary Topic
Action Observation and Synchronization
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
Controls
|||
ALL TIME
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
article

Solving the interface problem: from intentions to motor representations through conceptual spaces

Eline N. Kuipers, Peter Brössel
Synthese
Action Observation and Synchronization
article

Solving the interface problem: from intentions to motor representations through conceptual spaces

Eline N. Kuipers, Peter Brössel
article en

Abstract

To explain intentional bodily action, we must address the Interface Problem: how propositional intentions and non-propositional motor representations integrate non-accidentally. Two requirements arise: matching, ensuring a motor representation corresponds to an intention despite format differences, and selection, choosing one motor representation among multiple matches. We combine Gärdenfors’ conceptual spaces with Bayesian inference to meet both requirements.

SyntheseVol. 207(4)
Ruhr University Bochum (DE)
Reduced inequalities
Openalex Percentile: Top 17%
Action Observation and Synchronization
AI Navigator

Ask Laika to Summarize, Analyze, and Connect papers live on the map.

Summarize Papers & Methodologies

Extract key findings, datasets, and comparative methods across publications.

Benchmark Rankings & Visual Analytics

Rank top research institutions, authors, funders, topics, and journals by Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) and paper volume with instant charts.

Connect Distant Disciplines

Bridge topological clusters on the map to find hidden collaborative intersections.