Early Category and Concept Development: Making Sense of the Blooming, Buzzing Confusion (Psychology)

This is the first book devoted entirely to the development of categorization and conceptual abilities during the first years of life, a central topic in developmental psychology and cognitive science. Rakison and Oakes have brought together the leading investigators of categorization of speech, visual-spatial patterns, objects, and of animals. Also included are theoretical chapters on the development of categorization, both from connectionist and from more rationalist perspectives. Providing an overview of the research in the field during the past 25 years, this volume highlights current issues under debate, describes the most exciting and influential theories currently in the field, and acts as a guide to future research endeavors.