Reasoning involves individuality: an inquiry into divination practice in early China

• Published in: Time and mind Vol. 17; no. 3-4; pp. 249 - 265
• Main Authors: Kanaev, Ilya A., Han, Mei
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Routledge 01.10.2024
• Subjects: analogical reasoning; Cognition; divination practice; early China; logic
• ISSN: 1751-696X; 1751-6978
• DOI: 10.1080/1751696X.2025.2449615

In the common sense of the term, reasoning is defined as thinking in a logical and sensible manner that justifies one's actions. Within the Western tradition, it is generally associated with formal rules, where the structure of reasoning guarantees the validity of an inference. This involves a particular approach that treats human cognition as though it results from mere computation, such that any correct inference must be true for anyone in particular circumstances. However, recent advances in cognitive sciences have demonstrated that one is always embedded in contexts that influence one's cognitive abilities. This study elaborates on the authors' interdisciplinary research in philosophy, anthropology, and cognitive science, with the aim of providing a naturalistic explanation of the origin and development of human consciousness. Here, we review the anthropological data provided by studies concerning divination practices in early China, in light of the modern scientific framework. We highlight a particular similarity between these two conceptual systems and argue that both imply a high degree of individuality in the suggested modes of reasoning. The provided synthesis reveals some basal modes of cognition that are shared by all humans and that underlie any culture. This contributes to cross-cultural studies and mutual understanding.