Psychology Of A Silicon Based Lifeform

[petrushkagoogol]

Would the same psychological constructs apply if we were based on silicon, rather than carbon ? 
Both the elements C (2,4) and Si (2,8,4) have 4 electrons in the outer shell. 
However halitosis in a silicon based lifeform might smell different. 
More significantly, the "mind" would possibly respond to stimuli just as in carbon based lifeforms, but the triggering chemical might be a silicon derivative. 

Would psychology have the need to be refactored to allow for this systemic change ? 
Would this provide insights into possible "alien" physiology, and consequently psychology ?

My own opinion is that while the semantics of alien psychology would remain unchanged, the biochemical triggers would be redefined. 

 

 

 

 

 

[exchemist]

 

Would the same psychological constructs apply if we were based on silicon, rather than carbon ? 

Both the elements C (2,4) and Si (2,8,4) have 4 electrons in the outer shell. 

However halitosis in a silicon based lifeform might smell different. 

More significantly, the "mind" would possibly respond to stimuli just as in carbon based lifeforms, but the triggering chemical might be a silicon derivative. 

 

Would psychology have the need to be refactored to allow for this systemic change ? 

Would this provide insights into possible "alien" physiology, and consequently psychology ?

My own opinion is that while the semantics of alien psychology would remain unchanged, the biochemical triggers would be redefined. 

 

 

 

 

 

Totally pointless to speculate about psychology of even other terrestrial life, let alone that of aliens. In any case, there are reasons why Si-based life is had to envisage, since the way it reacts with oxygen militates against catenation.