4 What If Your Terrain Defined Your Growth?
post by Gabriel Brito (gabriel-brito) · 2024-12-10T23:12:45.808Z · LW · GW · 0 commentsContents
How Does the DMP Work?
Understanding the Levels
1 Biological Level
Transition to Emotional Level
2 Emotional Level
Transition to Social Level
3 Social Level
Transition to Intellectual Level
4 Intellectual Level
I. Diagrama Dynamic Multilevel Process (Dynamic Multilevel Process (DMP)
Why the DMP Matters
Comparisons with Other Models
From Theory to Practice: The DMP, an example.
Initial Bridge Questions:
"How does understanding these levels transform into actionable insights?"
"What happens when theory meets reality?"
"How can we navigate between levels in real-time?"
Context
Key Event
Resolution
Outcome
Analyze the Balance
Visual Representation:
Another exemples:
Teamwork in Business:
Education:
Criticisms and Challenges:
Conclusion
Key Innovations of the DMP
Join the Conversation!
Next Steps (Coming soon)
References
About Maslow's hierarchy
About the triune (evolutionary) brain
About cognitive science models
About cognitive science models
On Gardner's multiple intelligences
About neuroscience and hierarchical levels
About decision-making models
About hierarchical and dynamic processes
Regarding social interaction and cognitive levels
Appendix:
None
No comments
From Channel Mapping to Dynamic Multilevel Process (DMP)
In ancient Japan, the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi revealed that true mastery of the sword was not about brute strength but the precise flow of energy and intention (expanded upon in the appendix).
In the previous section (here) [LW · GW], we explored how to divide the flow; now, we’ll shift our focus to understanding what is most valuable to plant, depending on the terrain you’re cultivating.
In a world overwhelmed by information, cognitive biases, and constant comparison, measuring personal growth becomes a challenge. How can we accurately track our progress amidst these obstacles?
The Dynamic Multilevel Process (DMP) is a theoretical framework under development that aims to provide a systematic approach to self-knowledge. This emerging model integrates principles of Fermi Estimation and Information Theory [LW · GW] into personal development, using Referential Boundary Moments as anchors to identify, analyze, and optimize individual motivation. From Moments of Peak Motivation these are times when individuals feel highly engaged and capable, driven by clear purpose and alignment with their goals. These serve as reference points—key events or realizations that help track personal growth over time, similar to milestones on a map. As a work in progress, the DMP invites collaborative refinement and empirical validation from the community.
The DMP framework aligns with information processing principles observed in neuroscience, while remaining open to refinement as our understanding evolves. The model's levels roughly correspond to known neural systems, though the primary focus is on information flow rather than detailed neural mechanisms. I welcome feedback on the neurological consistency of this approach and suggestions for improvement.
This approach, enhanced by Channel Mapping [LW · GW], balances personal growth with environmental adaptation, bridging theory and practice.
By structuring cognitive processing into dynamic levels—biological, emotional, social, and intellectual—the DMP synthesizes these tools into a cohesive system that not only guides strategic decision-making but also provides a clear framework for navigating complexity and fostering both personal and collective evolution.
So, the DMP segments cognitive processing into four fundamental levels:
- Biological: Instinctive and automatic processing.
- Emotional: Integration of stimulus-response patterns.
- Social: Processing based on relationships and group dynamics.
- Intellectual: Abstract and analytical processing.
How Does the DMP Work?
The DMP framework focuses on three key objectives:
- Managing Complexity
- Identify the dominant processing level to reduce mental overload.
- Target interventions more precisely, avoiding mismatched strategies.
- Optimizing States
- Each level generates distinct states, from stable (lower levels) to diverse but demanding (higher levels).
- Stability at lower levels is essential for advanced processing.
- Improving Decision-Making
- Pinpoints the level needing attention.
- Guides resource allocation for more effective problem-solving.
Understanding the Levels
- Focus: Genetic/ancestral information processing
- Transition trigger: When survival takes precedence
- Example: Fight-or-flight responses
- Key characteristic: Direct input-output relationship
- Neurological Base: Limbic system/Brainstem
- Processing Type: Automatic/Survival
- Validation Method: Biometric markers
- Transition Indicators:
- Heart rate variability
- Cortisol levels
- Response time
- Muscle tension
Transition to Emotional Level
Defined by:
- When learned memory is more important than genetic memory
- Shift from immediate survival to pattern processing
- Transition from reactive to learned responses
Indicators:
- Ability to override immediate impulses
- Formation of conditioned responses
Example: Moving from hunger-driven eating to scheduled meals
- Focus: Learned Stimulus information
- Transition trigger: When pattern recognition becomes primary
- Example: Learning from pain/pleasure associations
- Key characteristic: Stimulus-response integration
- Base Neurológica: Sistema límbico/amígdala
- Validación: Auto-reporte emocional
- Indicadores:
- Estado de ánimo
- Nivel de energía
- sleep quality
- emotional response patterns
Transition to Social Level
Defined by:
- When collective emotions is more important than individual emotions
- Shift from individual to collective processing
- Transition from personal to interpersonal optimization
Indicators:
- Consideration of others' states becomes primary
- Group outcomes prioritized over individual comfort
Example: Choosing group harmony over personal preference
- Focus: Relational Information Prioritization
- Transition trigger: When group dynamics become central
- Example: Empathy-based decision making
- Key characteristic: Multi-agent consideration
- Neurological Base: Prefrontal cortex/Mirror system
- Validation: Interpersonal feedback
- Processing Type: Empathic/Collaborative
- Indicators:
- Interaction quality
- Perceived connection level
- Communication effectiveness
- Relationship reciprocity
Transition to Intellectual Level
Defined by:
- When information is more important than social emotions
- Shift from relationship-based to abstract processing
- Transition from intuitive to analytical thinking
Indicators:
- Abstract principles guide decisions
- Context-independent analysis becomes possible
Example: Moving from social convention to principle-based decisions
- Focus: Pure information processing
- Transition trigger: When abstract thinking dominates
- Example: Mathematical problem solving
- Key characteristic: Context-independent analysis
- Neurological Base: Prefrontal cortex/Association areas
- Validation: Problem-solving capability
- Processing Type: Analytical/Abstract
- Indicators:
- Thought clarity
- Abstraction capacity
- Processing speed
- Information retention
I. Diagrama Dynamic Multilevel Process (Dynamic Multilevel Process (DMP)
Why the DMP Matters
The DMP simplifies complex cognitive processes into manageable, actionable layers. Think of it as a GPS for your brain: it shows where you are and where to focus your energy.
- Managing Complexity
Like a filing system, it helps quickly identify the “drawer” (level) needing attention, avoiding wasted effort. - Generating States
- Lower levels provide stability but fewer options.
- Higher levels offer diverse states but demand a stable foundation.
- Improving Decisions
- Identifies cognitive bottlenecks.
- Provides clear strategies for resource allocation.
Comparisons with Other Models
| Model | Traditional Focus | DMP Advantage |
| Maslow's Hierarchy | Linear progression (needs → self-actualization). | Captures dynamic shifts between levels based on context. |
| Triune Brain (Evolution) | Sequential brain evolution (Reptilian → Limbic → Neocortex). | Modern neuroscience integration; focuses on operational processes. |
| Cognitive Science Models | Isolated processes (e.g., memory, reasoning). | Hierarchical interplay between emotional, social, and intellectual systems. |
| Bayesian Brain Models | Probabilistic processing in isolation. | Adds a multilevel, hierarchical structure for prioritizing resources. |
| Gardner’s Intelligences | Discrete types of intelligence. | Explains how intelligence operates dynamically across levels. |
From Theory to Practice: The DMP, an example.
Initial Bridge Questions:
"How does understanding these levels transform into actionable insights?"
"What happens when theory meets reality?"
"How can we navigate between levels in real-time?"
Context
I served as the lead instructor in a high-pressure training scenario, despite being outranked by two Army sergeants who acted as my assistants. A pivotal moment occurred when the class lost focus, and my superiors recommended imposing traditional military discipline (e.g., push-ups and running). I firmly insisted on prioritizing first aid training over physical exercises, even when a sergeant showed visible disapproval.
Key Event
The following day, during CPR training, I proposed using chairs to refine movement efficiency, remarking humorously, “The movement is sensual, the movement is sexy.” An older officer (later revealed as a general) immediately challenged this comment, expressing concerns about potential offense to the two female soldiers among the group of 30 men.
Resolution
Instead of reacting defensively, I transformed the challenge into a teaching moment:
- I invited one of the female soldiers to participate in a demonstration.
- Using the Socratic method, I guided her through the CPR protocol step-by-step:
- Me: "What’s your first action when finding an unconscious person?"
- Her: "Check for environmental risks."
- Me: "Then?"
- Her: "Call for support."
- Me: "Next?"
- Her: "Assess the victim."
- At the end, I asked her, “Do you feel offended by the teaching style?” She responded, “This has been the most educational class I’ve had in the Army.”
Outcome
The general revealed his rank and commended my unorthodox but effective teaching method. He awarded me the following:
- The Peace Warrior Badge
- An official military cover
- Recognition during a battalion-wide ceremony
Analyze the Balance
A DMP Framework in Action: CPR Training Scenario"
This training scenario demonstrates how the Dynamic Multilevel Process operates in a real educational setting:
Biological Level Engagement:
- Physical positioning for CPR
- Muscle memory development
- Automatic response training
- Basic survival skills transmission
Emotional Level Integration:
- Managing tension between authority figures
- Converting potential conflict into learning opportunity
- Using humor to reduce stress
- Creating emotional safety for learning
Social Level Application:
- Managing group dynamics
- Addressing gender sensitivity
- Building instructor-student trust
- Creating collaborative learning environment
Intellectual Level Implementation:
- Socratic method application
- Strategic teaching methodology
- Critical thinking development
- Problem-solving approach
The scenario demonstrates DMP transitions:
- From Biological (physical movements)
- Through Emotional (stress management)
- Via Social (group dynamics)
- To Intellectual (teaching methodology)
Resource Allocation (10 points):
Reflecting on this Moment of Peak Motivation (MPM), I allocated resources across four categories for more moments of peak Motivation, These are times when individuals feel highly engaged and capable, driven by clear purpose and alignment with their goals.:
| Category | Points | Explanation |
| Biological | 2 | Maintaining composure under authority and physical discipline dynamics. |
| Emotional | 8 | Leveraging humor and empathy to turn potential conflict into connection and engagement. |
| Social | 10 | Navigating power dynamics and preserving respect while leading in a diverse group. |
| Intellectual | 7 | Using creative and Socratic teaching techniques to elevate learning beyond expectations. |
Visual Representation:
🟢🟢🟢 ⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪⚪ (Biological)
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 ⚪⚪ (Emotional)
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 (Social)
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 ⚪⚪⚪ (Intellectual)
The theoretical structure of the DMP—progressing from biological instincts to intellectual reasoning—is directly demonstrated in the military training scenario. For instance, the focus on CPR muscle memory (Biological Level) evolves through emotional tension management (Emotional Level), into group dynamics optimization (Social Level), and culminates in abstract teaching techniques (Intellectual Level).
Another exemples:
Teamwork in Business:
"In a corporate setting, the DMP helps identify when a team is stuck in emotional reactions (e.g., resistance to change) and guides them towards higher-level intellectual collaboration by focusing on data-driven strategies."
Education:
"In a classroom, teachers can use the DMP to address disruptions. For instance, a child acting out (Biological Level) may need emotional regulation (Emotional Level) before engaging in group discussions (Social Level) or abstract problem-solving (Intellectual Level)."
Criticisms and Challenges:
- Some may view this approach as overly reductionist.
- May require deeper exploration of philosophical underpinnings.
- Needs further empirical testing across varied populations.
What do you think? Does the bottom-up approach resonate with your experience? Share your thoughts and critiques in the comments!
Would you like to try and help validate empirically, I would be happy if you contacted me!
Conclusion
The Dynamic Multilevel Process (Dynamic Multilevel Process (DMP)) framework maps cognitive processing like shells of increasing complexity - each level representing a distinct way our minds process and generate information:
Key Innovations of the DMP
- Information-Centric Approach
- Focuses on processing efficiency and measurable outcomes.
- Clear Transition Boundaries
- Defined by specific indicators (e.g., physiological or emotional states).
- Biological Integration
- Links cognitive processes to neurological systems and measurable markers.
- Practical Applications
- Enables actionable strategies for navigating between levels.
Join the Conversation!
- How can this framework be improved?
- Are there specific challenges you'd to address?
- Share your feedback and experiences applying the concepts in your life.
Next Steps (Coming soon)
The DPM is just the beginning. In the upcoming steps, we will guide you through:
- Superfunctions, and MetaVirtues: Explore advanced tools for understanding how your mind processes information and how to leverage these layers to enhance your performance.
- Apply the Framework: Go beyond theory—set actionable goals, design routines, identify tasks, and track your progress in a way that aligns with your unique motivational patterns.
- Empirical validation
References
About Maslow's hierarchy
- Maslow, A. H. (1943). "A Theory of Human Motivation." Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0054346
About the triune (evolutionary) brain
- MacLean, P. D. (1990). The Triune Brain in Evolution: Role in Paleocerebral Functions. Nueva York: Springer Science & Business Media.
About cognitive science models
- Miller, G. A., Galanter, E., & Pribram, K. H. (1960). Plans and the Structure of Behavior. Nueva York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston.
- Marr, D. (1982). Vision: A Computational Investigation into the Human Representation and Processing of Visual Information. San Francisco: W.H. Freeman.
About cognitive science models
- Knill, D. C., & Pouget, A. (2004). "The Bayesian Brain: The Role of Uncertainty in Neural Coding and Computation." Trends in Neurosciences, 27(12), 712-719. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2004.10.007
On Gardner's multiple intelligences
- Gardner, H. (1983). Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Nueva York: Basic Books.
About neuroscience and hierarchical levels
- Damasio, A. R. (1994). Descartes' Error: Emotion, Reason, and the Human Brain. New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons.
- Panksepp, J. (1998). Affective Neuroscience: The Foundations of Human and Animal Emotions. New York: Oxford University Press.
About decision-making models
- Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, Fast and Slow. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
- Gigerenzer, G., & Gaissmaier, W. (2011). "Heuristic Decision Making." Annual Review of Psychology, 62(1), 451-482. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-120709-145346
About hierarchical and dynamic processes
- Friston, K. (2010). "The Free-Energy Principle: A Unified Brain Theory?" Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 11(2), 127-138. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2787
- Baddeley, A. (2000). "The Episodic Buffer: A New Component of Working Memory?" Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 4(11), 417-423. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1364-6613(00)01538-2
Regarding social interaction and cognitive levels
- Tomasello, M. (2014). A Natural History of Human Thinking. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.
- Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). "The Need to Belong: Desire for Interpersonal Attachments as a Fundamental Human Motivation." Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497-529. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.117.3.497
Appendix:
At one point in his life, Miyamoto Musashi sought not only to perfect his martial art but also to strengthen his body and mind through disciplined labor. To this end, he decided to cultivate a barren piece of land, believing that the process would refine his skills and sharpen his focus.
Initially, Musashi attempted to control the flow of water on his land by building barriers to block it. However, each time the rains came, these barriers collapsed under the force of the water, leaving his efforts in ruins. He soon realized that resisting the natural flow was not only futile but also a waste of energy.
Determined to find a better solution, Musashi shifted his approach. Rather than fighting against the water, he observed its patterns and behaviors. He designed a simple but effective system of channels to guide the flow, distributing its force in a way that nourished the land instead of destroying it. This shift in mindset was transformative:
- Adaptation over resistance: Musashi learned to work with the terrain, channeling the water in harmony with its natural tendencies.
- Observation and strategy: By studying the dynamics of the water, he created a system that required less effort yet achieved greater results.
- Collaboration: Inspired by his perseverance, neighbors joined the effort, teaching Musashi the value of collective strength in achieving goals.
These lessons extended far beyond agriculture. In combat, Musashi began to embody the principle of channeling force rather than resisting it. Instead of clashing directly with an opponent’s strength, he learned to redirect it, turning it to his advantage. This philosophy became a cornerstone of his fighting style, Niten Ichi-ryu, emphasizing control, adaptability, and strategy.
Through his failures and eventual success, Musashi discovered that true mastery—whether in battle or in life—comes not from imposing one’s will upon the world, but from understanding and working with its natural flows.
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