The debated cognitive benefits of bilingualism: What the research really shows
By
The Economist
Summary
This article examines the debated cognitive benefits of bilingualism, particularly its supposed improvement of executive function and potential to delay dementia onset by about four years. However, it notes that some studies have failed to replicate these findings, leaving uncertainty about whether the effects are real. The article suggests that while the brain benefits are inconclusive, learning languages offers other more concrete advantages.
Source
Twitter / XThe debated cognitive benefits of bilingualism: What the research really showseconomist.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledMultilingualism is supposed to improve 'executive function', a loose concept that includes the ability to ignore distractions, plan complex tasks and update beliefs as new information arrives.
Numerous studies have even shown that bilinguals undergo a later onset of dementia, perhaps of around four years, on average.
Some of these studies have failed to replicate, leaving experts wondering whether the effect is real, and if so, what exactly it consists of.
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