Object topicalization shares two functional properties with the passive: foregrounding of the patient and de-topicalization of the agent. This fact makes one wonder why the former occurs far less frequently in written text. The present paper is an attempt to illuminate some properties of object topicalization not shared by the passive. It is argued that while object topicalization may de-topica...

A considerable body of research has examined the age-old assertion that reading literature enhances empathy, however, mixed results have been found. The present study attempts to clarify such disparities, investigating role foregrounding in possible differences readers’ processing literary texts and its connection with empathic reactions. We asked participants (N = 78) mark parts text they cons...

ABSTRACT Historians can contribute significantly to education historiography bolster transformation. Contemporary scholarship in education, the main, mostly wrestles with current dispensation's transformation of policy endeavours post-apartheid era. While there is no substantial or insurmountable disagreement on objectives South Africa, much contestations seem arise from how these should be rea...

Executive functions include processes by which important information (e.g., words, objects, task goals, contextual information) generated via perception or thought can be foregrounded and thereby influence current and subsequent processing. One simple executive process that has the effect of foregrounding information is refreshing--thinking briefly of a just-activated representation. Previous s...