Boundaries to grounding abstract concepts

Diane Pecher*, Rene Zeelenberg

*Corresponding author for this work

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19 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Grounded theories of cognition claim that concept representation relies on the systems for perception and action. The sensory-motor grounding of abstract concepts presents a challenge for these theories. Some accounts propose that abstract concepts are indirectly grounded via image schemas or situations. Recent research, however, indicates that the role of sensory-motor processing for concrete concepts may be limited, providing evidence against the idea that abstract concepts are grounded via concrete concepts. Hybrid models that combine language and sensory-motor experience may provide a more viable account of abstract and concrete representations. We propose that sensory-motor grounding is important during acquisition and provides structure to concepts. Later activation of concepts relies on this structure but does not necessarily involve sensory-motor processing. Language is needed to create coherent concepts from diverse sensory-motor experiences.
Original languageEnglish
JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London Series B-Biologic
Volume373
Issue number1752
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 5 Aug 2018

Research programs

  • ESSB PSY

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