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Related Experiment Videos

Contributions of memory circuits to language: the declarative/procedural model.

Michael T Ullman1

  • 1Brain and Language Laboratory, Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057-1464, USA. michael@georgetown.edu

Cognition
|March 24, 2004
PubMed
Summary

The declarative/procedural (DP) model proposes language relies on distinct brain systems for lexicon (declarative memory) and grammar (procedural memory). Evidence from neuroimaging and disorders supports this neurocognitive framework for language.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Science
  • Linguistics

Background:

  • Language uniquely relies on brain systems that also serve other functions.
  • The declarative/procedural (DP) model posits distinct neural substrates for lexicon and grammar.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present and evaluate the declarative/procedural (DP) model of neurocognition for language.
  • To compare DP model predictions with other neurocognitive language models.
  • To propose a new neurocognitive framework for studying lexicon and grammar.

Main Methods:

  • Review of brain structure and evolutionary principles.
  • Analysis of neuroimaging studies in normal language processing.
  • Examination of developmental and adult-onset language disorders.

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Main Results:

  • Evidence supports the DP model, linking lexicon to declarative memory (temporal lobe) and grammar to procedural memory (frontal, basal-ganglia, parietal, cerebellar).
  • Language disorders may stem from impairments in either the declarative or procedural systems.
  • The DP model offers specific, testable predictions.

Conclusions:

  • The DP model provides a robust neurocognitive framework for understanding language.
  • Language disorders can be re-conceptualized based on the affected neural system (declarative vs. procedural).
  • This framework advances the study of lexicon and grammar in the brain.