How are propositional representations conceptualized?

Propositional representations are understood as abstract statements that convey meaning in a structured form, akin to logical equations or statements. They express relationships between concepts in a way that is not tied to any specific sensory modality— unlike visual images, tactile experiences, or even nonverbal thoughts. This means they encapsulate information in a format that can be universally shared and analyzed, focusing on the meaning rather than the way the information is represented visually or physically.

By conceptualizing information as propositions, cognitive psychology emphasizes the role of language and logical structure in thought processes. This enables individuals to manipulate ideas based on their abstract content, independent of how they might visualize or physically experience those ideas. Through this lens, propositions serve as the building blocks for reasoning and problem-solving, illustrating the fundamental role that abstract representations play in cognitive functioning.