Language and Theory of Mind

1
Language and Theory of Mind

• Language acquisition
• Chomsky vs. Skinner but what is innate?
• Constraints on learning ? Ellen Markman (e.g.,
  whole object assumption mutual exclusivity)
• But also statistical learning
• Key prerequisite Theory of mind capacities or at
  least precursors (Baldwin Baldwin Moses)
• Self-other differentiation, turn taking, joint
  attention, reading of actions and intentions,
  introspective access ? expression

2
Language and ToM contd

• Communication (Sperber Wilson)
• Communication itself is a problem of theory of
  mind (Grices intention theory of meaning)
• Is even preverbal communication based on
  intention inferences? (How about animals?)
• Interrelations (ASTINGTON)
• Links go in the other direction as well
• syntactic complement mastery facilitates belief
  concept.
• co-development mutual benefits, mutual practice