Semantic memory is described as the storage of knowledge, concepts,
and information that is common and relatively consistent across
individuals (e.g., memory of what is a cup). These memories are stored in
multiple sensorimotor modalities and cognitive systems throughout the
brain (e.g., how a cup is held and manipulated, the texture of a
cup's surface, its shape, its function, that is related to beverages
such as coffee, and so on). Our ability to engage in purposeful
interactions with our environment is dependent on the ability to
understand the meaning and significance of the objects and actions around
us that are stored in semantic memory. Theories of the neural basis of the
semantic memory of objects have produced sophisticated models that have
incorporated to varying degrees the results of cognitive and neural
investigations. The models are grouped into those that are (1) cognitive
models, where the neural data are used to reveal dissociations in semantic
memory after a brain lesion occurs; (2) models that incorporate both
cognitive and neuroanatomical information; and (3) models that use
cognitive, neuroanatomic, and neurophysiological data. This review
highlights the advances and issues that have emerged from these models and
points to future directions that provide opportunities to extend these
models. The models of object memory generally describe how category
and/or feature representations encode for object memory, and the
semantic operations engaged in object processing. The incorporation of
data derived from multiple modalities of investigation can lead to
detailed neural specifications of semantic memory organization. The
addition of neurophysiological data can potentially provide further
elaboration of models to include semantic neural mechanisms. Future
directions should incorporate available and newly developed techniques to
better inform the neural underpinning of semantic memory models.
(JINS, 2007, 13, 865–880.)