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Appropriation

Last updated on Monday, April 29, 2024.

 

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Appropriation, in the context of cognitive science and cognitive linguistics, refers to the process of selectively borrowing or adapting cognitive resources, such as language, knowledge, or cultural practices, from one context or group to another for various purposes. This concept involves reinterpreting and integrating these borrowed resources into the new context or group's existing cognitive framework.

The Concept of Appropriation in Cognitive Science and Cognitive Linguistics

Appropriation is a concept that holds significant importance in the realms of Cognitive Science and Cognitive Linguistics. It refers to the process by which individuals or groups adapt, modify, or repurpose existing ideas, practices, or symbols for their own use or benefit.

Appropriation in Cognitive Science

In Cognitive Science, appropriation is often studied in the context of how individuals assimilate new information or experiences into their existing cognitive frameworks. This process involves reshaping mental structures to incorporate novel concepts, leading to learning and adaptation.

Example: When learning a new language, individuals often appropriate grammar rules and vocabulary from their native language to make the learning process more efficient.

Appropriation in Cognitive Linguistics

Cognitive Linguistics explores how language shapes thought processes and vice versa. Appropriation plays a crucial role in understanding how individuals use language creatively to construct meaning and convey complex ideas.

Example: Metaphor is a form of appropriation in language, where one concept is metaphorically mapped onto another to facilitate understanding (e.g., "Time is money").

In conclusion, the concept of appropriation illuminates how individuals engage with and manipulate various cognitive constructs, including language, to make sense of the world around them. By studying appropriation in Cognitive Science and Cognitive Linguistics, researchers can gain deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying human cognition and communication.

 

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