Semantic Classification in Category-Specific Semantic Impairments Reflected in the Typology of Bantu Noun Class Systems

Just as the search for an explanation to category specific semantic impairments is based on the belief that the functioning and biological structure of the brain is universal it has been thought that the understanding of the grouping of nouns in noun class systems hints at a universal cognitive basis, which underlies such linguistic classifications. What constitutes possible typological variation of noun classification is therefore relevant to the question of the universal nature of semantic categories. It is a crucial point for the present argument that the two sources of evidence as represented by cognitive neuroscience and linguistic typology are independent of each other and that they are practiced by separate research societies. It is also hoped that the juxtaposition of these two fields will trigger an interest in the wider question