A Theoretical Position Statement on Mechanism Underlying Numerical Cognition

Abstract

This theoretical statement addresses the lack of a homogenous understanding of what constitutes a "mechanism" in studies in numerical cognition. Despite the increasing focus on mechanisms in the field, ambiguity exists in how mechanisms are defined and interpreted. To address this, I propose a conceptual framework that outlines three levels of mechanisms: micro-, relational, and macro-level, that each correspond to different levels of mechanisms to understand associations in the research field of numerical cognition. The micro-level mechanisms refer to a process-oriented perspective. The relational level refers to a perspective with a focus on underlying associations between variables, and finally the macro-level mechanisms refer to theory-oriented perspectives. I hope that this framework will serve as a starting point for future dialogue, providing clarity and promoting consistency in the conceptualisation of mechanisms in the field.