Global and Local Features of Semantic Networks: Evidence from the Hebrew Mental Lexicon
2011

Global and Local Features of Semantic Networks in Hebrew

Sample size: 60 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kenett Yoed N., Kenett Dror Y., Ben-Jacob Eshel, Faust Miriam

Primary Institution: Bar-Ilan University

Hypothesis

How do global and local features of the Hebrew lexicon influence semantic search processes?

Conclusion

The study found that the Hebrew lexicon exhibits Small-World Network features, which influence how words activate each other in semantic memory.

Supporting Evidence

  • The Hebrew lexicon shows a high clustering coefficient and a scale-free distribution.
  • The study provides a quantitative analysis of Hebrew semantics for the first time.
  • The findings relate to classical research on spreading activation in semantic memory.

Takeaway

This study looked at how words in Hebrew are connected and found that they work together like a web, helping us remember and find words more easily.

Methodology

The study analyzed free association norms using correlation and network theory methodologies.

Limitations

The sample size of target words was small compared to the entire mental lexicon.

Participant Demographics

60 Hebrew-speaking subjects participated in the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0023912

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