In his 1979 Human Development article reprinted in this anniversary issue, James Wertsch presented an approach to genetic analysis of the shifting regulation of problem-solving behavior in early childhood. In my reflections on Wertsch’s seminal contribution, I discuss ways that subsequent inquiry built upon ideas he elaborated in the 1979 article, using my own work as an illustrative case. One strand of my discussion focuses on method. Wertsch’s treatment involved lab-based studies, and I discuss how, in my research on early number development, I coordinated laboratory methods similar to Wertsch’s with field methods. The second strand broadens the scope of Wertsch’s approach to genetic analyses. Wertsch presented a compelling case for the utility of genetic analysis in investigations of the emergence of forms of problem solving. I discuss the importance of extending genetic explanation by incorporating sociogenetic analysis of the reproduction and alteration of collective systems of representation in the social history of communities. As an illustration I present my research on numerical representations used by a remote Papua New Guinea cultural group. I conclude by considering the utility of a genetic analysis of collective forms of representation and the functions these forms serve, in ontogeny as well as in social history.

Keywords:
Genetic explanation, Language games, Numerical cognition, Numerical representation, Regulation of behavior, Sociogenesis
This content is only available via PDF.
© 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel
2008
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.