The Imagery Debate

Question 1

Is imagery spatial or propositional?

Answer 1

Spatial representation is an epiphenomenon; accompanies real mechanism but isn’t actually a part of it
Physhly proposed that imagery is propositional
Represented by abstract symbols and language

Question 2

Physhlyn vs. Kosslyn

Answer 2

Physhlyn argued that Kosslyn’s results can be explained by using real-world knowledge unconsciously
Ex: when participants asked to visually imagine traveling distances, use own knowledge that larger distances take longer to traverse
“Tacit knowledge” explanation

Question 3

Finke and Pinker

Answer 3

Presented display with 4 dots, then second display with arrow appears
Participants judge whether arrow points to dots previously seen
Results: longer reaction time when greater distance between arrow and previous dot
Supports mental spatial/traveling imagery idea