Retiring the “Cinderella view”: the spinal cord as an intrabodily cognitive extension

Within the field of neuroscience, it is assumed that central nervous system divided into two functionally distinct components: brain, which does cognizing, and spinal cord, a conduit information enabling brain to do its job. We dub this “Cinderella view” cord. Here, we suggest should be abandoned. Marshalling recent empirical findings, claim cord best conceived as an intrabodily cognitive extension: piece biological circuitry that, together with constitutes our engine. To so, after brief introduction anatomy briefly present number studies highlighting role played by in processing. Having so done, satisfies popular often endorsed criteria used adjudicate cases extension; namely parity principle so-called “trust glue” criteria. This, argue, sufficient vindicate mental extension. then steel case considering sizable prominent anti-extension arguments, showing none them poses serious threat main claim. conclude essay, spelling out far-from trivial implications view.