Challenges and insights for the visual system: Are face and word recognition two sides of the same coin?

Abstract

Both word and face recognition processes are related to the fusiform gyrus which is located in the temporal and occipital lobes of the brain. Although both processes present several similarities, there are also remarkable differences between word and face recognition processes. These differences include a vast range of approaches and result from different groups of participants. However, how dissociated or overlapped these processes are continues to be a topic of debate. This study reviewed whether human face and word recognition require special use of attentional mechanisms is examined, including its distribution and temporal stages of processing conceptual issues such as grand challenges or future lines of research are revisited for these two recognition processes. The main insight is focused on the role of specialization for each process, which rather than being independent, might be bilaterally distributed with some preferences. • Face recognition might be not as an innate process as it was believed. • Face recognition present a remarkable advantage for word recognition over categorization processes. • As these areas have been described as parts of other circuitry networks, rather than being independent, these might be bilaterally distributed with some gradual specializations or preferences. • Longitudinal studies in developing readers might be imperative to understanding individual differences.