Aphantasia: In search of a theory
DOI: 10.1111/mila.12432
Blomkvist, A. (2023). Aphantasia: in search of a theory. Mind & Language, 38(3), 866–888. doi:10.1111/mila.12432
Abstract
Though researchers working on congenital aphantasia (henceforth “aphantasia”) agree that this condition involves an impairment in the ability to voluntarily generate visual imagery, disagreement looms large as to which other impairments are exhibited by aphantasic subjects. This article offers the first extensive review of studies on aphantasia, and proposes that aphantasic subjects exhibit a cluster of impairments. It puts forward a novel cognitive theory of aphantasia, building on the constructive episodic simulation hypothesis of memory and imagination. It argues that aphantasia is best explained as a malfunction of processes in the episodic system, and is therefore an episodic system condition.
Authors
- Andrea Blomkvist1
Understanding Aphantasia: A New Perspective
Overview/Introduction
Aphantasia is a condition where individuals cannot voluntarily create mental images. While this has been known, the full range of impairments associated with aphantasia is still debated. This paper provides a comprehensive review of existing research and introduces a new theory suggesting that aphantasia is linked to problems in the brain's episodic system, which is responsible for memory and imagination.
Methodology
The study involved a detailed review of existing literature on aphantasia, focusing on various studies that have explored the condition. The research examined data from questionnaires and experiments, particularly those assessing the vividness of visual imagery and memory recall. The paper also critiques existing theories and proposes a new model based on the constructive episodic simulation hypothesis (CESH).
Key Findings
- Voluntary Visual Imagery: Aphantasics struggle to generate mental images voluntarily, confirmed by low scores on the vividness of visual imagery questionnaires.
- Sensory Impairments: Many aphantasics report reduced imagery across all senses, not just vision.
- Memory and Imagination: Aphantasics often have difficulties recalling episodic memories and imagining future or atemporal events.
- Dreams and Daydreams: Aphantasics experience fewer and qualitatively different dreams compared to others.
- Spatial Imagery: Despite other impairments, aphantasics perform normally on tasks requiring spatial imagery.
Implications
This research suggests that aphantasia should be viewed as a condition affecting the episodic system rather than just a visual imagery issue. This perspective could lead to new diagnostic methods and therapeutic approaches, focusing on improving episodic memory and imagination rather than solely on visual imagery.
Limitations
The study acknowledges that aphantasia manifests differently among individuals, indicating a need for more personalized approaches in research and treatment. Current diagnostic tools, like the vividness of visual imagery questionnaire, may not capture the full spectrum of the condition, potentially excluding individuals with non-visual impairments.
In conclusion, this paper lays the groundwork for a new understanding of aphantasia, emphasizing its connection to episodic memory processes. Future research should aim to test this theory further and explore its implications for diagnosis and treatment.