The prototype theory of categorization states that:
A)people make category judgments by comparing new instances with the category's prototype.
B)each member of a category serves as its own ideal,or prototype.
C)only the best exemplars of a category will be considered for membership into that category.
D)category prototypes are genetically determined and are universal to all cultures.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The prototype theory of categorization suggests that people form category judgments by comparing new instances with the category's prototype, which represents the central or most typical features of that category. This prototype is not necessarily a real object or person, but rather, an abstract representation of the typical features that define the category. Therefore, option A is correct. Option B is incorrect because the prototype is a representation of the typical features shared by category members, rather than each member being its own ideal. Similarly, option C is incorrect because the prototype theory states that even less typical members can still be considered part of a category if they have similarities with the prototype. Option D is incorrect because category prototypes are not genetically determined or universal, but rather depend on the cultural and personal experiences of each individual.

The Prototype Theory of Categorization States That