Thesis: Artificial neural network models are adequate mechanistic models of the mind
Defender: Micha Heilbron
Opponent: Pim Haselager
Donders Debate
The first three Donders Sessions (2026) are on scientific topics with different opinions among researchers in the field of cognitive neuroscience. We will discuss these topics in the format of a debate between representatives of the different points of view. The debate is not about winning or losing. But it is a format that enables a focused insight into the issues at stake. The debate is based on a thesis, that will be defended by one Donderian and opposed by another Donderian. Defenders and opponents each get 12 minutes max to make their point of view clear. This is followed by a rebuttal of 5 minutes each. After this the audience can participate in the debate.