'Cognitive mapping' : a cross-cultural perspective

Abstract

This review is concerned with 'cognitive mapping' (spatial cognition) in a cross-cultural perspective with particular reference to the Australian Aborigines and Australians of European descent.

A 'cognitive map' is defined as a schematized representation that the individual carries in his head and refers to when moving around in his spatial environment. The process of 'cognitive mapping' is explored in terms of a model of human information processing and the general conclusions which emerge are: 1. 'Cognitive mapping' may be conceived as a dymanic process whereby selected information is integrated into a meaningful structure (a 'cognitive map') in relation to the individual's current schemata; his knowledge; and his 'world view'. 2. The 'cognitive map’ may be a visual and/or a verbal representation and its structure will likely contain the topological; projective; and possibly the euclidean relationships inherent in the landscape. 3. The major integrative processes involved in 'cognitive mapping' may be described as simultaneous and/or successive synthesis.

It is suggested that there is considerable scope for cultural differences in 'cognitive mapping' at all stages in the human information processing model. This thesis is developed by comparing Aboriginal and European cultures with the emphasis on the Aborigines as the ethnographically unfamiliar culture . Three features of Aboriginal 'cognitive mapping' are outlined: 1. a highly developed bushcraft; 2. the ability to use dynamic mental maps; and 3* an indelible knowledge of spiritually significant landmarks and Dream-time tracks. Aboriginal 'cognitive mapping' is discussed in view of the human ifnormation processing model previously developed, and possible cross-cultural research hypotheses are presented. -

In conclusion, it is emphasised that an ethnographic approach, the nature of which is discussed, is the only viable approach to a crosscultural investigation of large-scale 'cognitive mapping'.