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Sensory-integration system rather than approximate number system underlies numerosity processing: A critical review.
Titia Gebuis1, Roi Cohen Kadosh2, Wim Gevers3
1Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Acta Psychologica
|September 19, 2016
Summary
The approximate number system (ANS) theory, widely accepted for numerical cognition, faces scrutiny. New evidence suggests a sensory-integration system may better explain how species process large approximate numerosities.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Comparative Psychology
Background:
- The approximate number system (ANS) theory is a dominant explanation for processing large numerosities in humans and animals.
- It is considered foundational for numerical development and arithmetic skills.
- Converging evidence from various fields supports the ANS theory.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the empirical evidence and theoretical underpinnings of the ANS theory.
- To identify shortcomings and confounds in studies supporting the ANS.
- To propose an alternative explanation for approximate numerosity processing.
Main Methods:
- Critical review of existing literature on the approximate number system.
- Analysis of empirical studies in human and non-human animals.
- Evaluation of computational models supporting the ANS theory.
Main Results:
- Significant empirical shortcomings and confounds challenge the ANS theory.
- Existing computational models may oversimplify the mechanisms of numerosity processing.
- The evidence for a specialized ANS is not as robust as widely accepted.
Conclusions:
- The existence of a specialized approximate number system (ANS) is questioned.
- A sensory-integration system offers a more comprehensive explanation for processing large approximate numerosities.
- Future research should explore how multiple sensory cues contribute to numerical estimation.
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