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The case for a notation-independent representation of number

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 August 2009

Stanislas Dehaene
Stanislas Dehaene
Affiliation:
Inserm-CEA Cognitive Neuroimaging Unit, NeuroSpin Center, CEA/SAC/DSV/I2BM, Bât 145, Point Courrier 156, F-91191 Gif/Yvette, France. [email protected]://www.unicog.org
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Abstract

Cohen Kadosh & Walsh (CK&W) neglect the solid empirical evidence for a convergence of notation-specific representations onto a shared representation of numerical magnitude. Subliminal priming reveals cross-notation and cross-modality effects, contrary to CK&W's prediction that automatic activation is modality and notation-specific. Notation effects may, however, emerge in the precision, speed, automaticity, and means by which the central magnitude representation is accessed.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 32 , Issue 3-4 , August 2009 , pp. 333 - 335
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2009

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