“Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave.

I rise. I rise. I rise.”

— Maya Angelou, Still I Rise

 I am unapologetically BLACK. If that triggers you, go take a look in the mirror. Ask yourself why, then ask yourself why again. Keep asking until you reach the root issue, then deal accordingly.  No matter what you do, don’t get disrespectful.

This started with me centering articles focused on equity and equality, reproductive justice, abolition, restorative justice, and more. I have evolved to sharing my own prose writings as well as some articles shared in my newsletter. I hope to start/carry on the important conversations.

Jameela Hill 1/22/24 Jameela Hill 1/22/24

What is a Mental Model?

Mental models are cognitive frameworks or structures that individuals use to understand, interpret, and navigate the world around them. These models shape perceptions, guide decision-making, and influence behavior. The psychology behind mental models is rooted in cognitive science and how the mind processes information.

1. Cognitive Efficiency:

Mental models simplify complex information, making it easier for the brain to process and comprehend. This cognitive efficiency allows individuals to quickly make sense of situations and make decisions without being overwhelmed.
Source: Johnson-Laird, P. N. (1983). "Mental Models: Towards a Cognitive Science of Language, Inference, and Consciousness." Harvard University Press.

2. Pattern Recognition:

Mental models help in recognizing patterns and relationships within data. This pattern recognition enables individuals to apply previous knowledge to new situations, fostering adaptive learning and problem-solving.
Source: Kahneman, D., & Tversky, A. (1972). "Subjective Probability: A Judgment of Representativeness." Cognitive Psychology, 3(3), 430–454.

3. Decision-Making and Predictions:

Mental models serve as decision-making tools by providing a framework for assessing risks, benefits, and potential outcomes. Individuals use these models to make predictions about future events based on past experiences.
Source: Gigerenzer, G., & Goldstein, D. G. (1996). "Reasoning the Fast and Frugal Way: Models of Bounded Rationality." Psychological Review, 103(4), 650–669.

4. Simplifying Complex Systems:

In dealing with complex systems or information overload, mental models simplify and organize information into manageable chunks. This simplification enhances comprehension and aids in making sense of intricate concepts.
Source: Anderson, J. R. (1983). "The Architecture of Cognition." Harvard University Press.

5. Cognitive Consistency:

Mental models contribute to cognitive consistency by aligning new information with existing beliefs and knowledge. This consistency reduces cognitive dissonance and enhances a sense of coherence in one's understanding of the world.
Source: Festinger, L. (1957). "A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance." Stanford University Press.

6. Predictive Power:

Through mental models, individuals develop the ability to predict outcomes based on certain actions or scenarios. This predictive power aids in planning, goal-setting, and anticipating consequences.
Source: Thagard, P. (2005). "Mind: Introduction to Cognitive Science." MIT Press.

Mental models, rooted in these psychological principles, are powerful tools that help individuals navigate the complexity of their environment. They play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, influencing decisions, and fostering adaptive learning and problem-solving.