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This paper proposes using large language models as prediction-only controls to clarify the boundaries of cognitive phenomena and their biological underpinnings.

June 19, 2026Open Access

The Delta: Large Language Models as a Prediction-Only Control that De-confounds the Mind Sciences

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This paper proposes using large language models as prediction-only controls to clarify the boundaries of cognitive phenomena and their biological underpinnings.
Argues for language models to act as prediction controls in cognitive science
Analyzes cognitive phenomena that language models reproduce without a biological basis
Explores the implications for understanding the narrative and minimal self
Identifies that reconstructing the narrative self from a non-biological substrate is possible while the minimal self cannot be captured similarly
Demonstrates that phenomena absent in language models indicate specific biological substrates are necessary
Operationalizes the reverse-inference critique to address over-attribution of cognitive phenomena to biological frameworks

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Implication

Opinion piece explores how language models can distinguish cognitive phenomena from biological processes, suggesting new insights into self and cognition.

Cite This Study

Tomas Pødenphant Lund (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a34df2365a5b0777af2e465 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20679634

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Implication

Opinion piece explores how language models can distinguish cognitive phenomena from biological processes, suggesting new insights into self and cognition.

The Delta: Large Language Models as a Prediction-Only Control that De-confounds the Mind Sciences

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

The Delta: Large Language Models as a Prediction-Only Control that De-confounds the Mind Sciences

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

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