Summary
CompCog aims to provide an evolution-based approach by presenting a broader view of cognition in diverse animal species. It brings together researchers (and laboratories) which have a different scientific background and work on different species. The proposed programme activities are planned for five years according to the following triple aims, adjusted to the requirements of the comparative cognition field both in the short and in the long term:
Complementary research activity throughout Europe: CompCog would provide regular forums for experts in the field to exchange views and discuss both long-debated and newly-emerging problems of comparative cognition. This is envisioned to be the most effective way to facilitate research on theoretically highly relevant topics in various species in a truly comparative way.
Systematic collection of research results: CompCog would provide a unified system to collate research methods and results across various species. The systematic collection of data produced by different research groups would enhance the study of social cognition in an operationally comparative way.
Training of future researchers: CompCog would provide a framework for training PhD students and young researchers early in their carrier in order to raise a new generation of researchers with a broader insight and a knowledge about a wide range of human and non-human animal species, together with various research methods and theoretical and applied approaches. The only efficient way to achieve this goal is to give students the opportunity to form their own experiences with different species and to gain first hand information from experts and peers from the different subfields.
The establishment of common knowledge of comparative social cognition could facilitate the development of better animal model to understand the functioning of the human and the nonhuman mind.
Duration
Five years, from May 2008 to June 2013.
This RNP held its kick-off meeting on 6-7 May 2008 at the ESF Headquarters in Strasbourg, France.
External website
More information in available on the CompCog dedicated website: www.compcog.org
COMPCOG brochure
