The Implications of the Working Memory Model for the Evolution of Modern Cognition
Joint Authors
Wynn, Thomas
Coolidge, Frederick L.
Source
International Journal of Evolutionary Biology
Issue
Vol. 2011, Issue 2011 (31 Dec. 2011), pp.1-12, 12 p.
Publisher
Hindawi Publishing Corporation
Publication Date
2011-03-20
Country of Publication
Egypt
No. of Pages
12
Main Subjects
Abstract EN
What distinguishes the cognition of biologically modern humans from that of more archaic populations such as Neandertals? The norm in paleoanthropology has been to emphasize the role of language and symbolism.
But the modern mind is more than just an archaic mind enhanced by symbol use.
It also possesses an important problem solving and planning component.
In cognitive neuroscience these advanced planning abilities have been extensively investigated through a formal model known as working memory.
The working memory model is now well-enough established to provide a powerful lens through which paleoanthropologists can view the fossil and archaeological records.
The challenge is methodological.
The following essay reviews the controversial hypothesis that a recent enhancement of working memory capacity was the final piece in the evolution of modern cognition.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Wynn, Thomas& Coolidge, Frederick L.. 2011. The Implications of the Working Memory Model for the Evolution of Modern Cognition. International Journal of Evolutionary Biology،Vol. 2011, no. 2011, pp.1-12.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-495028
Modern Language Association (MLA)
Wynn, Thomas& Coolidge, Frederick L.. The Implications of the Working Memory Model for the Evolution of Modern Cognition. International Journal of Evolutionary Biology No. 2011 (2011), pp.1-12.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-495028
American Medical Association (AMA)
Wynn, Thomas& Coolidge, Frederick L.. The Implications of the Working Memory Model for the Evolution of Modern Cognition. International Journal of Evolutionary Biology. 2011. Vol. 2011, no. 2011, pp.1-12.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-495028
Data Type
Journal Articles
Language
English
Notes
Includes bibliographical references
Record ID
BIM-495028