Module 11: Concepts and Schemas

Concept

A mental representation or category that groups together objects, events, or ideas sharing similar characteristics, allowing us to organize and understand the world.

Classical Theory

A theory proposing that concepts are defined by a set of necessary and sufficient features that an object must possess to belong to the concept.

Prototype Theory

A theory suggesting that concepts are represented by a 'prototype,' a typical example of the category, and new items are categorized based on similarity to this prototype.

Conceptual Atomism

The view that some concepts are basic or 'atomic' and cannot be broken down further, serving as the fundamental building blocks of thought.

Typicality Effects

The phenomenon where some members of a category are judged as more typical or representative than others.

Pet Fish Problem

A challenge to the Classical Theory, highlighting difficulties in defining necessary and sufficient features for fuzzy categories like 'pet fish'.

Jen Aniston Neuron

A hypothetical neuron proposed to represent highly specific concepts, such as visual images of individuals, subject to debate in neuroscience.

Cascading Activation

A model of information processing where activation spreads continuously through interconnected nodes, allowing overlapping processing.

Schema

A structured mental framework or body of knowledge about a topic, helping to interpret new information and guide behavior.

Assimilation

In Piaget's theory, the process of incorporating new information into existing schemas, interpreting it in a way that fits current understanding.

Accommodation

In Piaget's theory, modifying existing schemas or creating new ones to fit new, incompatible information or experiences.