Michael Hogan

Michael’s research interests have broadened over time, but he maintains a core focus on lifespan development grounded in the philosophical framework of pragmatic systems science. Michael is currently working on his second book, which elaborates his developmental perspective. The book examines some of the problems and possibilities of human ageing and adaptation. The analysis is focused largely on adult development but is couched within a lifespan, evolutionary, ecological, and philosophical frame. The primary aim of the book is to further promote the synthesis of pragmatism and systems science in the field of psychological science. Specifically, there are forms of systems science rooted in pragmatism that focus on the design of problematiques that help individuals and groups to see the structure of problems and consider actions that will resolve problems. In the context of a discussion of emotional, cognitive, and social problems and possibilities, Michael will demonstrate the potential value of pragmatic systems science for those involved in the design of environments that impinge upon human ageing and adaptation. Michael has recently spent some time doing research at Harvard University (working with Kurt Fischer on EEG coherence and learning), Arizona State University (working with Alex Zautra and Mary Davis on resilience and mindfulness), Frankfurt University (working with Jochen Kaiser on EEG and ageing memory), and Aberdeen and Edinburgh (working with Roger Staff and Ian Deary on the role of the cerebellum in ageing cognition). Michael has published in the following broad areas: Systems Science and Integral Frameworks (in Systems Research and Behavioral Science); behavioral and electrophysiological aspects of executive control, learning and memory ( Experimental Ageing Research; Brain Research; International Journal of Psychophysiology; Cognitive Brain Research; Neuropsychobiology; Brain Topography); Physical activity and ageing cognition ( Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition; International Journal of Human Ageing and Development); Emotion, Personality and Cognition in younger and older adults ( Psychology and Aging; Experimental Ageing Research); Emotion and cardiovascular responding ( Biological Psychology; International Journal of Behavioral Medicine); The cerebellum and aging cognition ( Cortex); Positive Psychology ( The Journal of Positive Psychology); Critical Thinking and Education ( Educational Research and Reviews; Thinking Skills and Creativity); Argument Mapping ( Metacognition and Instruction; Thinking Skills and Creativity); Chronic Pain ( PAIN; European Journal of Psychological Assessment); Spirituality ( Nova Science Publishers; Thinking Skills and Creativity); and Mindfulness ( The Irish Psychologist).