Behavioral and Brain Sciences

Table of Contents - June 2011 - Volume 34, Issue 03  

Open Peer Commentary

Language and mechanisms of concept learning

Daniel A. Weiskopfa1

a1 Department of Philosophy, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302. dweiskopf@gsu.edu http://www2.gsu.edu/~phldaw/

Abstract

Carey focuses her attention on a mechanism of concept learning called “Quinian bootstrapping.” I argue that this form of bootstrapping is not dependent upon language or other public representations, and outline a place for language in concept learning generally. Language, perception, and causal reasoning are all sources of evidence that can guide learners toward discovering new and potentially useful categories.

(Online publication May 19 2011)

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