Cognitive scientists accept the idea of an activation level when it helps predict behavior and when there is a biological basis.

• A. Only when it helps predict behavior
• B. Only when there is a biological basis
• C. When it helps predict behavior and there is a biological basis
• D. Regardless of predictive value

Answer: (C)

Activation level is accepted when it helps predict behavior and there is a biological basis. In cognitive science, a useful idea about how ready a mental system is to respond is strongest when it not only explains and predicts how people will perform but also has a plausible neural mechanism to back it up. If activation helps forecast what someone will do, that demonstrates predictive value; if there’s no known brain process linking that activation to behavior, the idea lacks a concrete grounding. Conversely, even with solid neural evidence, if the concept doesn’t improve or explain prediction, its usefulness is limited. When both conditions are met—predictive power and a biological foundation—the concept is well supported.