The Structure of Concepts

The application of the term concept, though widespread, Is varied and inexact. The Important role of concepts Is seen throughout the areas of psychology, education, and artificial intelligence. A brief survey is made of the meanings of concept evidenced in psychological research in concept attainment, word association and semantic mediation, and information processing. From these data, desiderata are developed for an operational definition of concept. Finally, a definition meeting these criteria is offered. The term systemic concept is thus Introduced. This definition reflects the two principal characteristics of concepts uncovered: concepts as data and concepts as processes. It is suggested that the systemic concept offers a framework for analysis of diverse psychological problems and will facilitate comparison among distinct conceptual skills