The multiple semantics hypothesis: Multiple confusions?

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Abstract
In this paper we discuss the issue of multiple versus unitary semantics. We argue that the notion of multiple semantics (as currently articulated) does not, in fact, represent a theory of semantic organisation but is, instead, an arbitrary conjunction of a set of independent assumptions which are either unmotivated or, if motivated, equally compatible with a unitary semantics hypothesis. Furthermore, the empirical evidence that has been cited as support for this hypothesis is equally compatible with variants of the unitary semantics hypothesis. A model of semantic processing—the Organised Unitary Content Hypothesis (O.U.C.H.)—that is able to account for reported patterns of dissociation of performance is discussed briefly.