TITLE:
The Cognitive Mechanism and Limitations of Deep Learning from the Perspective of the Three-Level Cognitive Theory
AUTHORS:
Jianwei Sun
KEYWORDS:
Three-Level Cognitive Theory, Deep Learning, Epistemology, Black-Box Dilemma, Crisis of Understanding
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Philosophy,
Vol.15 No.4,
November
21,
2025
ABSTRACT: Building on the Three-Level Theory of Cognition, this paper examines the architecture and foundational principles of deep learning in order to clarify its specific cognitive mechanisms and the central epistemological challenges it poses. The cognitive efficacy of deep learning derives from the synergistic interaction of three distinct levels: computational theory defines its objectives, algorithms specify the methods for achieving them, and hardware serves as the physical substrate for algorithmic implementation. Together, these levels jointly drive the advancement of deep learning. Meanwhile, the current challenges faced by deep learning, namely the lack of interpretability and theoretical understanding, also constitute the core epistemological issues in machine learning. By identifying these constraints at each hierarchical level, this paper highlights where future research must focus to deepen our understanding of deep learning’s cognitive capabilities and to resolve its foundational epistemic problems.