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Aphantasia and the Language of Imagination: A Wittgensteinian Exploration

DOI: 10.18276/aie.2021.55-01
Fox-Muraton, M. (n.d.). Aphantasia and the language of imagination: a wittgensteinian exploration. Analiza i Egzystencja, 55, 5–24. doi:10.18276/aie.2021.55-01

Abstract

Congenital aphantasia, or the complete absence of mental imagery, is a topic that has recently aroused the interest of researchers in many fields including philosophy, psychology and cognitive sciences. While it is generally supposed that we all have rich mental lives full of imaged representations, estimates suggest 2-3% of the population may have never formed an image or seen 'in the mind's eye.' This paper aims to address the scepticism surrounding aphantasia, the challenges in communicating about mental imagery, and the research methods used in cognitive sciences today through the lens of Wittgenstein's philosophy. The paper argues that 1) communicating about mental imagery involves language games that persons with aphantasia may not be able to play (i.e., makes reference to expressions and concepts that are meaningless for them, such as 'visualise,' 'form an image,' etc.); 2) that as a consequence aphantasia, in present research, is only describable negatively (as lack or incapacity); 3) that rather than a cognitive or a psychological issue, aphantasia should be understood as a grammatical one; and 4) that we need to invent new language games in order to come to a better understanding of conditions such as aphantasia, and to be able to appreciate the rich diversity and variability of human experience.

Authors

  • Mélissa Fox-Muraton2

Understanding Aphantasia: A New Perspective on Mental Imagery

Overview/Introduction

Imagine being unable to picture your best friend's face or visualize a sunset in your mind. This is the reality for people with congenital aphantasia, a condition where individuals lack the ability to create mental images. Recent research suggests that 2-3% of the population may experience this, challenging the common belief that everyone has a vivid "mind's eye." This paper explores the complexities of aphantasia through the philosophical lens of Ludwig Wittgenstein, focusing on the challenges of communicating about mental imagery and the implications for cognitive science.

Methodology

The study employs a philosophical approach, using Wittgenstein's ideas to examine how language shapes our understanding of mental imagery. Wittgenstein's concept of language games—the idea that language's meaning is derived from its use in social contexts—serves as a framework to explore how people with aphantasia navigate conversations about mental imagery.

Key Findings

  • Communication Challenges: People with aphantasia may struggle with language that assumes the ability to visualize, such as terms like "imagine" or "visualize." These expressions are part of language games that they cannot participate in meaningfully.
  • Negative Descriptions: Current research often describes aphantasia in terms of what is lacking, rather than understanding it as a unique way of experiencing the world.
  • Grammatical Issue: Aphantasia is not just a cognitive or psychological condition but a grammatical one, highlighting the need for new language games to better understand and appreciate diverse human experiences.

Implications

  • Rethinking Mental Imagery: The study suggests that mental imagery might not be as central to cognitive processes as previously thought. People with aphantasia can perform daily tasks and engage in creative activities without visualizing.
  • New Language Games: To foster better understanding, we need to develop new ways of talking about mental experiences that do not rely on visual imagery. This could lead to more inclusive communication and research practices.

Limitations

While the paper provides valuable insights, it primarily offers a philosophical perspective rather than empirical data. Further research is needed to explore the neurological and psychological aspects of aphantasia and how individuals adapt to their unique experiences.
In conclusion, this exploration of aphantasia challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about mental imagery and highlights the importance of language in shaping our understanding of human cognition. By embracing the diversity of mental experiences, we can develop a richer appreciation for the complexities of the human mind.