Abstract
Can the study of individual differences inform debates about modularity and the specialization of function? In this article, we consider the implications of a highly replicated, robust finding known as positive manifold: Individual differences in different cognitive domains tend to be positively intercorrelated. Prima facie, this fact, which has generally been interpreted as reflecting the influence of a domain-general cognitive factor, might be seen as posing a serious challenge to a strong view of modularity. Drawing on a mixture of meta-analysis and computer simulation, we show that positive manifold derives instead largely from between-task neural overlap, suggesting a potential way of reconciling individual differences with some form of modularity.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 288-303 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Cognitive Neuropsychology |
Volume | 28 |
Issue number | 3-4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 2011 |
Keywords
- Cognitive architecture
- Functional specialization
- Individual differences
- Positive manifold
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
- Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental and Educational Psychology
- Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous)
- Cognitive Neuroscience