*CogSci 2026 - Call for Submissions to the 48th Annual Meeting of the Cognitive Science Society Conference* Theme: Cognitive (In)Efficiency Rio de Janeiro, Brazil July 20 - 25, 2026
The Cognitive Science Society invites submissions to the 2026 edition of its annual conference, *CogSci*. Submissions should address cognition from any area related to Cognitive Science, including Artificial Intelligence, Linguistics, Anthropology, Psychology, Neuroscience, Philosophy, and Education. Submission guidelines, including submission categories, templates and important dates are available at https://cognitivesciencesociety.org/submissions/. Submission will be open from November 26th 2025 to February 2nd 2026.
*Special Theme: Cognitive (In)Efficiency* A core objective of cognitive science is to identify the mental processes that guide thought and behavior. Much research has focused on understanding these processes through the lens of utility and cognitive efficiency. Human and non-human species are often seen as striving toward learning, problem-solving, communication, and other goals by making optimal use of cognitive resources. However, many behaviors and mental processes are not a product of this ideal of efficiency and often deviate from it. CogSci 2026 focuses on the theme of Cognitive (In)Efficiency, and aims at exploring through three thematic symposia: *(In)efficiency in Language and Communication*, *(In)efficiency in Social Cognition and Cooperation*, and *(In)efficiency in Cognitive Science Research*.
The first two emphasize the critical need to address both cognitive efficiency and inefficiency as natural and influential aspects of processing and behavior. By exploring instances where cognitive processes and behavioral outputs appear suboptimal—particularly in the contexts of communication and social coordination—we invite a deeper examination of what constitutes “optimality” across different domains and settings. In doing so, we aim to broaden the understanding of cognitive processes by considering both efficient and inefficient pathways that shape thought and behavior. The third symposium addresses (in)efficiencies arising from disparities in research conditions across cognitive science laboratories and departments worldwide. This symposium will spotlight how unequal access to funding creates systemic barriers to global representation while showcasing cognitive scientists who produce impactful research despite facing disadvantaged material conditions. Our aim is to advocate for a more equitable approach that values contributions from researchers across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, ultimately enriching the field as a whole.
Each symposium topic will feature one keynote and three invited speakers. Our keynote speakers include: - Balthasar Bickel, Universität Zürich - Hyowon (Hyo) Gweon, Stanford University - Julia Hermida, National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina and National University of Hurlingham
*Conference Format* CogSci 2026 will be fully hybrid with streaming of the entire program, except for workshops (which will all be in-person). Presenters can choose to present in-person in Rio de Janeiro or virtually, and virtual attendees will be able to view the entire program synchronously. Virtual talks will be presented synchronously throughout the program, and virtual posters will be available for asynchronous interaction via the conference app, as well as synchronous online interaction via video conferencing.
*Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives* CogSci is committed to providing opportunities for people with different backgrounds to attend the conference. Therefore, and since this is the first time the Cognitive Science Society Conference comes to South America, on top of the already existing initiatives promoted by the society, CogSci 2026 will feature reduced registration rates for participants from South America.
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Gemma Boleda Universitat Pompeu Fabra / ICREA https://gboleda.github.io/