5.5.3 Information processing stages for commands to action

The preceding diagram illustrates typical imitation. The setting is a physical fitness class where the members follow the instructor. The instructor is on the left, and the imitator is on the right.

The green and blue arrows show the stages in information processing that are required to allow the imitator to copy the actions of the instructor.

The blue arrows on the right show the stages that are required to convert the commands to physical action, i.e. to movement of the bones.

6. We hypothesize that action is based on inner-language-based commands that tells the imitator to move her limbs to the specified position and orientation in space
• Like the description, this set of commands does not have to be in any specific language such as English.
• Since it is for internal use by the imitator, it does not have to be communicated through speech or writing.
• The commands can be seen as analogous to a description of the future positions of the body and limbs.
7. We hypothesize that the commands are interpreted as instructions to change the appropriate limb positions for those limbs where the 'future' position differs from the present position.
• This difference detection and change specification may be "automatic" and "subconscious" and not subject to "conscious" monitoring
• The change commands may have varying degrees of exactitude
8. We hypothesize that the commands to change positions are interpreted as instructions to change joint angles appropriately to obtain the specified limb positions
• This interpretation is likely to be "automatic" and "subconscious"
• The interpretation may be based on earlier learning, practice, and habituation
9. We hypothesize that the instructions are in turn interpreted to produce appropriate muscle tension
• This interpretation is also likely to be "automatic" and "subconscious" and not accessible for "conscious" monitoring
• The interpretation may be "built in" (genetic) or based on earlier learning, practice, and habituation