| |
Abstract:
While space can be represented using language, there are few
indications that cortical networks subserving spatial processing
are engaged by language. Only language tasks that require the
explicit analysis of space activate superior parietal regions
(e.g., solving syllogisms based on spatial relations: Carpenter et
al.,1999). In sign languages used by Deaf people it has been
proposed that while all syntax exploits spatial relationships
between signs, only certain syntactic structures require direct
spatial representation (topographic syntax; e.g., Bellugi et
al.,1990). That is, spatial relations can deliver linguistic
structure. In this fMRI study, with native British Sign Language
users, the distinction between topographic and non-topographic
syntax was explored using a sentence-acceptability task. We
confirmed that signed sentences activated traditional language
areas with involvement of their right hemisphere analogues. In
addition, the left parieto-occipital sulcus showed greater
activation during comprehension of topographic syntax than
non-topographic syntax. Spoken analogues of these sentences failed
to activate parietal regions in hearing participants. The results
suggest that for users of signed languages, cortical events can
reflect the fact that spatial relations can subserve language
processing, not just vice-versa. REFERENCES: Carpenter,P.A. et al.,
(1999). Neuroimage, 10, 216-24. Bellugi,U., et al., (1990). In 'The
fourth international symposium on sign language research'.
|
