Publications

Publication details [#1117]

Easterlin, Nancy. 2013. The functions of literature and the evolution of extended mind. New Literary History 44 : 661–682. 22 pp.
Publication type
Article in journal
Publication language
English

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the functions of literature in relation to the evolution of the so-called extended mind. What differentiates us from animals, according to the author, is the metaphor of the “cognitive niche” that guides human evolution toward independent thinking. At the same time, figurative language (including metaphor, metonymy, and synecdoche) and narrative that are central to literature are not a product of writing and speech but rather a prerequisite. Overall, the evolution of extended mind further enhances metaphorical thought and boosts consciousness.