Abstracting abstraction in development and cognitive ability

Behav Brain Sci. 2020 Jun 19:43:e127. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X19002930.

Abstract

We focus on the theory of abstraction proposed by the target article. We suggest that abstraction varies at different levels of learning, cognitive development, or cognitive ability. We argue that this theory does not specify how abstraction is done at each of these levels. Because of these weaknesses, the theory cannot explicate how individuals differ in mental time travel at different phases of life or different levels of cognitive ability.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Cognition
  • Concept Formation*
  • Humans
  • Learning