Aphantasia: the people who lack ‘the mind’s eye’

This video is meant to expand your general knowledge about living a healthy life and is NOT a substitute for seeking medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before making changes in your health practices, diet and self-care.

When we talk about the mind’s eye, we mean the ability to summon images in one’s head at will. But in 2015, a scientific study shed new light on the relatively unheard-of phenomenon known as ‘aphantasia’, a mental blindness where the brain is unable to call images to the mind’s eye.

In this WIRED UK video, we explore the root cause of an individual’s emotional detachment from people and events – and the unexpected advantages that come with it.

We meet Alex Wheeler, who shares the story of how aphantasia has affected his life – in particular his grieving process after losing his mother – and seeks answers from Adam Zeman, Professor of Cognitive and Behavioural Neurology at the University of Exeter Medical School.

Artist and YouTuber Amy Right also reveals personal experiences with aphantasia and how it fuels creativity.

View the original video here.

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