Question

Using the language of prototype theory, how do experts differ from non-experts with respect to the structure of their semantic memory?

a) Experts have more concrete and specific prototypes.
b) Experts rely on fewer prototypes than non-experts.
c) Experts have more abstract and generalized prototypes.
d) Experts do not use prototypes in their semantic memory.

Answer 1

Experts in the context of semantic memory have more abstract and generalized prototypes compared to non-experts.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of semantic memory, experts differ from non-experts in terms of the structure of their semantic memory. According to the language of prototype theory, experts have more abstract and generalized prototypes compared to non-experts. This means that experts categorize and store information based on the underlying principles and essence, rather than relying on specific examples or instances. For example, a medical expert may have a broad prototype for a disease, considering different symptoms and causes, whereas a non-expert may have a more specific prototype related to a particular disease they are familiar with.