Final answer:
Cognition is the most advanced process of cognition that encompasses thinking and various high-level cognitive processes. It involves the integration, organization, and utilization of conscious cognitive experiences. Chimpanzees demonstrate abstract thought in cognitive learning, which is more powerful than conditioning. Cognitive development can progress to the postformal stage where decisions are made based on situations and the integration of logic with emotion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cognition is the most advanced process of cognition. It encompasses a range of high-level cognitive processes such as perception, knowledge, problem-solving, judgment, language, and memory. Cognition involves thinking and the integration, organization, and utilization of conscious cognitive experiences. For example, the ability to consider multiple points of view, imagine hypothetical situations, and form new ideas are all aspects of advanced cognition.
One way to understand the complexity of cognition is through the study of cognitive learning. Research with chimpanzees has shown that they are capable of abstract thought, as demonstrated by their ability to solve puzzles using visualizations of the result before performing the action. This type of learning is more powerful and versatile than conditioning.
In terms of cognitive development, Piaget identified the formal operational thought stage as the highest level of cognitive development, which occurs between 11 and 20 years old. However, some psychologists propose a postformal stage of cognitive development, where decisions are made based on situations, circumstances, and the integration of logic with emotion.