The Scope of Memory-Based Processing

In this article, we articulate the critical differences between memory-based processing and explanation-based processing. We suggest that the most important claim of memory-based text processing is that the automatic processes that function with respect to text processing are all applications of ordinary memory processes. This claim contrasts with explanation-based accounts that argue that some automatic processes are special to text processing and enact particular reader goals. We review evidence that supports the memory-based approach but we also suggest how it might properly be falsified.