Gregory Murphy versus Eleonore Rosch: Are categorization theories comparable?

Abstract

I try to compare two well-known theories of categorization: the theory of graded structure (prototype approach) and the theory of theory (knowledge approach). While most researchers consider them to be in opposition to each other, some academics argue that both are based on feature analysis. In analyzing on relatively recent papers (starting from the year 2000) by the theories' founders, Eleanor Rosch and Gregory Murphy, I found additional points that lead me to question the tradition of setting the theory of theory against prototype theory. For example, Murphy builds his critique of Rosch's conception by assuming that her theory pretends to cover all aspects of categorization area, or, that in Roschean view there is a single “real” prototype for a category. However, Murphy admits that some of his assumptions are based on his interpretation of Rosch's research and even contradict her personal statements. For her part, Rosch argues that people's knowledge is just a part of the context that infuences people's categorization, reminding us that this was known long before Murphy's idea. I agree with Rosch about the knowledge approach: it seems to be not a new concept but rather an addition to the existing understanding of categorization mechanisms, particularly in the area of context effect. In conclusion, the discussion between Murphy and Rosch poses the question of how comparable are their theories: Rosch focuses on the graded structure of concepts, while also trying to create a basis for some rigorous (mathematical) solution, and Murphy emphasizes that “folk” theories play a key role in the categorization process.