In Concepts, Kinds, and Cognitive Development, Frank C. Keil provides a coherent account of how concepts and word meanings develop in children, adding to our understanding of the representational nature of concepts and word meanings at all ages.

Keil argues that it is impossible to adequately understand the nature of conceptual representation without also considering the issue of learning. Weaving together issues in cognitive development, philosophy, and cognitive psychology, he reconciles numerous theories, backed by empirical evidence from nominal kinds studies, natural-kinds studies, and studies of fundamental categorical distinctions. He shows that all this evidence, when put together, leads to a better understanding of semantic and conceptual development.

The book opens with an analysis of the problems of modeling qualitative changes in conceptual development, investigating how concepts of natural kinds, nominal kinds, and artifacts evolve.

The studies on nominal kinds document a powerful and unambiguous developmental pattern indicating a shift from a reliance on global tabulations of characteristic features to what appears to be a small set of defining ones. The studies on natural kinds document an analogous shift toward a core theory instead of simple definition. Both sets of studies are strongly supported by cross cultural data.

While these patterns seem to suggest that the young child organizes concepts according to characteristic features, Keil argues that there is a framework of conceptual categories and causal beliefs that enables even very young children to understand kinds at a deeper, theoretically guided, level. This account suggests a new way of understanding qualitative change and carries strong implications for how concepts are represented at any point in development.

A Bradford Book

About the Author

Frank C. Keil is Professor of Psychology at Yale University.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

50+ Million Books in stock & ready to ship! Excellent Prices, Service & Selection.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

When you see an item on our listing, it means we have it available in one of our warehouses right here right now, ready for same day or next day processing of your order. Over 50+ Million books in stock & ready to ship same day. Customer Service is a top priority for us, we want every customer to be 100% satisfied. We offer the world's largest selection of books, music and video. Maintaining an accurate inventory of more than 50+ Million items, we are able to ship your order the same day it is r...

More Information

Shipping Terms

SUPER FAST SHIPPING!

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	1 to 3 business days	1 to 3 business days
First item	US$ 8.98	US$ 19.98

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.