Domain-General Mechanisms Framework
General solutions for novel problems
The Domain-General Mechanisms Framework proposes that humans possess a number of general psychological mechanisms that can be used to solve novel or abstract problems. This framework is based on the idea that general solutions can be effective in solving novel problems, and that domain-general mechanisms can provide a flexible and adaptable solution to a wide range of problems.
- General solutions can be effective in solving novel problems.
- Domain-general mechanisms can provide a flexible and adaptable solution to a wide range of problems.
- Novel problems require general solutions.
- Identify the novel problemDetermine the novel problem that needs to be solved, such as a new environmental challenge or a complex social situation.Pro tipConsider the specific characteristics of the problem and the environment in which it is occurring.WarningFailure to identify the novel problem can lead to ineffective solutions.
- Determine the domain-general mechanismDetermine the domain-general psychological mechanism that is necessary to solve the problem, such as general intelligence or concept formation.Pro tipConsider the specific characteristics of the problem and the environment in which it is occurring.WarningFailure to determine the domain-general mechanism can lead to ineffective solutions.
- Activate the domain-general mechanismActivate the domain-general psychological mechanism that is necessary to solve the problem, such as by using general intelligence or concept formation.Pro tipConsider the specific context and environment in which the mechanism is being activated.WarningFailure to activate the domain-general mechanism can lead to ineffective solutions.
A person uses a domain-general mechanism, such as general intelligence or concept formation, to solve a complex social situation.
A person uses a domain-general mechanism, such as general intelligence or concept formation, to adapt to a new environment.
The concept of domain-general mechanisms has its roots in evolutionary psychology, which suggests that humans have faced many novel problems throughout their evolutionary history. This idea is supported by the fact that humans have been able to adapt to a wide range of environments and solve a variety of novel problems.