Inquiry into the nature of mental images is a major topic in psychology where research is focused on the psychological faculties of imagination and creativity. In this paper, we draw on the work of L. S. Vygotsky to develop a cultural-historical approach to the study of imagination as central to human cognitive processes. We characterize imagination as a process of image making that resolves "gaps" arising from biological and cultural-historical constraints, and that enables ongoing time-space coordination necessary for thought and action. After presenting some basic theoretical considerations, we offer a series of examples to illustrate for the reader the diversity of processes of imagination as image making. Applying our arguments to contemporary digital media, we argue that a cultural-historical approach to image formation is important for understanding how imagination and creativity are distinct, yet inter-penetrating processes. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.
CITATION STYLE
Pelaprat, E., & Cole, M. (2011). “Minding the Gap”: Imagination, Creativity and Human Cognition. Integrative Psychological and Behavioral Science, 45(4), 397–418. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12124-011-9176-5
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