Life is basically just a really complex way to resolve energy gradients by creating metabolic pathways that channel that energy towards creating localized low entropy environments. I’d argue cognition is a bit too strong a word to use in this scenario, it’s more of a mechanical feedback loop like thermostat. The change in environment triggers chemical change in the organism, and it changes behavior in response. But it absolutely is the basis for all volition. Complex organisms like us just have a huge number of really complex feedback loops that our brains end up balancing.
Life is basically just a really complex way to resolve energy gradients by creating metabolic pathways that channel that energy towards creating localized low entropy environments. I’d argue cognition is a bit too strong a word to use in this scenario, it’s more of a mechanical feedback loop like thermostat. The change in environment triggers chemical change in the organism, and it changes behavior in response. But it absolutely is the basis for all volition. Complex organisms like us just have a huge number of really complex feedback loops that our brains end up balancing.