A new study challenges the assumption that preschoolers struggle with complex reasoning. Researchers found that four- and five-year-olds can successfully employ disjunctive syllogism – a type of logical argument involving eliminating possibilities – to solve problems when presented with clear, engaging scenarios. Contrary to previous research, these children were able to deduce the correct answer even when the information was presented verbally, without visual aids, suggesting they possess more advanced reasoning skills than previously recognized. This indicates that children's reasoning abilities may be significantly influenced by how information is presented and that simpler, engaging presentations could unlock their potential for logical thought.
We lack memories from infancy and toddlerhood primarily due to the immaturity of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, brain regions crucial for forming and retrieving long-term memories. While babies can form short-term memories, these regions aren't developed enough to consolidate them into lasting autobiographical narratives. Further, our early understanding of the self and language, both essential for organizing and anchoring memories, is still developing. This "infantile amnesia" is common across cultures and even other mammals, suggesting it's a fundamental aspect of brain development, not simply a matter of repression or forgotten language.
HN commenters discuss various theories related to infantile amnesia. Some suggest it's due to the underdeveloped hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in infants, crucial for memory formation and retrieval. Others point to the lack of language skills in early childhood, hindering the encoding of memories in a narrative format. The idea that early childhood experiences are too traumatic to remember is also raised, though largely dismissed. A compelling comment thread explores the difference between episodic and semantic memory, arguing that while episodic memories (specific events) are absent, semantic memories (general knowledge) from infancy might persist. Finally, some users share personal anecdotes about surprisingly early memories, questioning the universality of infantile amnesia.
A 2013 study suggests that the introduction of iodized salt in the US during the early 20th century played a significant role in raising IQ levels, particularly in iodine-deficient regions. Researchers found a correlation between iodine levels in soil (and thus food) and IQ scores, demonstrating higher IQs in areas with more iodine and a notable increase in cognitive abilities in iodine-deficient areas after iodization programs were implemented. This suggests that a simple public health intervention like iodizing salt can have a profound impact on population-level cognitive performance.
Hacker News users discuss the complexities of attributing IQ gains solely to iodine. Several commenters highlight other potential contributing factors during the same period, such as improved nutrition, education, and reduced exposure to lead. Some express skepticism about the methodology used in the study, questioning the reliability of historical IQ data and the potential for confounding variables. Others point out the importance of iodine for overall health, especially for pregnant women and developing fetuses, regardless of its impact on IQ. The genetic component of intelligence is also raised, with some arguing that iodine supplementation primarily benefits those with pre-existing iodine deficiency, rather than boosting IQ across the board. A few users share anecdotes about the noticeable cognitive improvements they experienced after addressing their own iodine deficiencies.
Summary of Comments ( 149 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43470138
Hacker News users discuss the methodology and implications of the study on preschoolers' reasoning abilities. Several commenters express skepticism about the researchers' interpretation of the children's behavior, suggesting alternative explanations like social cues or learned responses rather than genuine deductive reasoning. Some question the generalizability of the findings given the small sample size and specific experimental setup. Others point out the inherent difficulty in assessing complex cognitive processes in young children, emphasizing the need for further research. A few commenters draw connections to related work in developmental psychology and AI, while others reflect on personal experiences with children's surprisingly sophisticated reasoning.
The Hacker News post titled "Preschoolers can reason better than we think, study suggests" (linking to a Phys.org article about the same study) generated a moderate amount of discussion, with a mixture of agreement, skepticism, and elaboration on the topic.
Several commenters pointed out potential flaws in the study's methodology or interpretation. One user questioned whether the researchers had adequately accounted for the possibility of children simply echoing what they believed the adults wanted to hear, rather than demonstrating genuine reasoning abilities. This commenter suggested a more robust experimental design would involve presenting scenarios where the socially desirable answer conflicted with the logically correct one.
Another commenter highlighted the importance of distinguishing between different types of reasoning. They argued that while preschoolers might exhibit surprisingly advanced abilities in certain domains, they might still struggle with more abstract or complex forms of reasoning. This raises the question of what exactly the study measures and whether "reasoning" is being used as a sufficiently precise term.
A few users offered anecdotal evidence supporting the study's findings, sharing personal observations of preschoolers demonstrating unexpected logical acuity. However, these anecdotes were presented as illustrative examples rather than rigorous data, acknowledging the limitations of personal experience in scientific discourse.
Some commenters engaged in a more theoretical discussion about the development of reasoning skills in children. One user discussed the concept of "theory of mind," which refers to the ability to understand that other people have their own beliefs and intentions, and how this relates to reasoning about social situations. Another user touched upon the role of language development in shaping reasoning abilities.
One particular line of discussion centered around the potential implications of the study for early childhood education. Some users suggested that if preschoolers are capable of more advanced reasoning than previously thought, educational practices should be adapted to capitalize on this potential. However, others cautioned against over-interpreting the study's findings and implementing changes based on preliminary research.
Overall, the comments section reflected a nuanced engagement with the study's findings. While some expressed enthusiasm about the potential implications, others raised important methodological concerns and offered alternative interpretations. The discussion highlighted the complexity of studying cognitive development in young children and the need for careful consideration of various factors that can influence their behavior.