Abstract

Crossing a cognitive event horizon—defined as the transition to regulation by temporally stable integrated abstract structures—does not by itself yield fully mature high-level cognition. This paper examines the post-horizon maturation dynamics that unfold after the horizon has been crossed. We argue that mature post-horizon cognition is characterized by global structure–first cognition: a mode in which a largely correct and task-relevant global structure is available at the outset of problem solving, such that structurally irrelevant alternatives fail to activate to any meaningful degree. We propose that post-horizon cognition undergoes a process of meta-structural convergence toward a structurally optimal configuration within the post-horizon regime. Convergence is not learning, not accelerated pruning, and not a further phase transition. Rather, it is driven by recognition of structural non-optimality in a previously viable post-horizon mode of cognition. Once such recognition occurs, the earlier mode becomes dynamically unstable. From that point onward, ordinary problem-solving interactions necessarily shift cognition toward the optimal configuration, as the recognized non-optimal structure can no longer function as a stable attractor. Convergence may proceed slowly through repeated engagement or be sharply accelerated by meta-level insight, but it cannot be skipped or instantiated instantaneously. It reflects a necessary, irreversible alignment of cognitive dynamics toward the only configuration that avoids systematic activation of irrelevant structure. This account explains how post-horizon cognition approaches its full potential without reverting to exploratory competition or requiring additional control layers.