Reviews and synthesizes, within the broad framework of comparative cognition, several approaches to the study of human memory, including ontogenetic, cultural/sociohistorical, and clinical research. Asserts that future research on comparative memory development must focus on the flexible and adaptive use of memory skills to meet purposes…

Contrasts work of Leontiev and Vygotsky. Suggests that Leontiev concentrated on social activity as a whole, whereas Vygotsky made semiotic mediation through culturally developed symbols a central aspect of his analysis. Maintains that they shared a philosophical base and that Leontiev used Vygotsky's ideas as a starting point to explore human…