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Memory drum theory's C movement: revelations from Franklin Henry
Mark G Fischman1, Robert W Christina, J Grog Anson
1Department of Kinesiology, Auburn University, AL 36849, USA. fischmg@auburn.edu
Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport
|September 27, 2008
Summary
Franklin Henry's influential "memory drum" theory contained an error in describing the C movement. This error, unnoticed for 20 years, was linked to Henry's lifelong aphasia.
Area of Science:
- Motor Control and Learning
- Cognitive Psychology
- History of Science
Background:
- Franklin Henry's "memory drum" theory (1960) is a seminal work in the response programming stage of information processing.
- It remains the most-cited study in the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport.
- The study investigated neuromotor reaction times and response programming.
Discussion:
- This paper reveals a significant error in the original 1960 publication concerning the description of the "C movement."
- The error remained undetected by Henry for approximately two decades.
- The correction and history of this error are detailed using original papers and personal correspondence.
Key Insights:
- Franklin Henry attributed the error to a mild, specific form of aphasia causing word reversals, a condition he experienced throughout his academic career.
- This revelation adds a unique dimension to understanding the scholar's remarkable achievements despite his condition.
- The study highlights the importance of meticulous review and the potential for human error even in foundational research.
Outlook:
- Revisiting seminal works with historical context can refine scientific understanding.
- Understanding cognitive challenges faced by researchers can offer new perspectives on their contributions.
- Further research could explore the impact of such cognitive variations on scientific output in other fields.
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