Project title

Measurement matters: Developing a philosophical measurement toolbox for neuroscience

Project description

Jolien Francken will be working on a project aimed at tackling the complexities of measurement in neuroscience. The field of neuroscience seeks to uncover the brain mechanisms behind cognitive abilities such as memory and consciousness. However, concepts like consciousness are challenging to measure, as they can be studied from various angles using a range of neuroscientific techniques, whether in human subjects or animal models like mice. This diversity in measurement methods often leads to conflicting results, making it difficult to integrate findings across studies.

Francken’s project seeks to address this issue by focusing on two key goals. First, she aims to deepen the understanding of what measurement truly entails, particularly within the context of neuroscience. Second, she hopes to develop a philosophical ‘measurement toolbox’ that can improve how measurements are approached and applied within the field. This toolbox is designed to be adaptable, not only benefiting neuroscience but also potentially offering insights to other areas of the life sciences and empirical research.

Through this work, Jolien’s project holds the potential to make a significant impact on scientific practices, particularly by enhancing the clarity and reliability of measurements in various disciplines. Moreover, by clarifying the concept of measurement, her research may help increase public understanding of science and the role of measurement in society. As measurement is integral to many areas of life, this project could also have broader implications for how individuals and communities approach data and scientific evidence. Her work aims to bridge gaps in both scientific research and public perception, creating a more coherent understanding of science and measurement practices.

Selected publications

  • Jolien Francken & Marc Slors (2023). Bewustzijn. Elementaire Deeltjes 80. Amsterdam: Athenaeum
  • Piai, V., Madan, C., Francken, J.C. (2024). The Bressanone Debates: Language and/or Memory: How to Slice the Domain-Cake?
  • Francken, J.C., Slors, M., Craver, C. (2022). Cognitive Ontology and the Search for Neural Mechanisms: Three Foundational
    Problems. Synthese 200, 378
  • Francken, J.C., Beerendonk, L., Molenaar, D., Fahrenfort, J. J., Kiverstein, J.D., Seth, A.K., & van Gaal, S. (2022). An academic
    survey on theoretical foundations, common assumptions and the current state of the field of consciousness science.
    Neuroscience of Consciousness 1:niac011