Similarity judgments of same-category object representations: Effects of physical size, manipulability, and word frequency

Dumitru, Magda L.; Joergensen, Gitte H.

doi:10.1080/13506285.2015.1093242

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

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“…We tested the thought extramission model by attempting to define a psychological function over the size of objects recorded in long-term memory under several sensory conditions. In a previous study (Dumitru & Joergensen 2015), we asked participants to evaluate object size or object similarity for homogeneous groups evoked by words read off a computer screen (e.g., 'rabbits' or 'elephants') and showed that objects of the same kind are evaluated as being more dissimilar to each other the bigger they are considered to be. The significant correlations we obtained between objects' size and objects' similarity demonstrate that concepts are organised as conceptual maps, hence as stable representations in the mind's eye.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Thought Extramission: The Eyes Project Conceptual Maps at Close Distance

Dumitru

Joergensen

2021

Preprint

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Light extramission is a popular yet erroneous model of human vision positing that light projects through the eyes over surrounding objects, allowing them to become visible. However, light extramission research has failed to distinguish between light and other types of emissions coming from the eyes, thereby discounting the possibility that extramission mechanisms might hold true for phenomena other than light. Here, we explored the thought extramission model, which is the notion that thoughts emanate from the eyes in the form of visualized representations. We show that the eyes project thoughts a short distance away in the form of high-resolution conceptual maps whose structure collapses at great distances. We also demonstrate that sensory filtering of thought projection by reducing light contrast lowers the resolution of conceptual maps. Our results highlight the supporting role of the visual system for thought processes relying on contrast, luminance, and perspective formation.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%