Understanding the Power of Images in Shaping Our Perception. A Deeper Look at Language and Thought.

From the time we are children, we are introduced to the world through pictures and images. Pictorial books and colorful visuals form an essential part of early learning, but have you ever wondered why this is the case? Why is it that as children, we are first taught through pictures, not words? The answer lies in the fundamental structure of our brain.

Our brain functions as a complex machine for storing images. It processes and understands the world primarily through visual representations. What we call “vocabulary” – words, phrases, or abstract language – is a secondary function of this image-based storage system. To truly grasp the influence of this mechanism, consider the word "brainwashing." The moment we hear this term, most of us automatically associate it with something negative. But the truth is, brainwashing can have a positive connotation as well, such as when it helps to undo ignorance or correct harmful mindsets.

Similarly, think of the word "jihad." In much of today’s world, the immediate association with this word is often images of violence, bloodshed, and conflict. However, jihad, in its true sense, represents a personal struggle for righteousness or self-improvement. A doctor striving to heal patients, a teacher working to educate the next generation, or even a cook preparing food for their community can all engage in their own forms of jihad. The problem is that our minds, having been conditioned by external influences, jump to the wrong image the moment we hear certain words.?

This raises an important question, How do these images get imprinted into our minds in the first place? The answer lies in our upbringing, education system, and the social context we are exposed to. Teachers, parents, and societal norms play a significant role in shaping our initial understanding of words and concepts. If we have been taught a narrow or incorrect definition of a concept whether it be "jihad," "mutiny," or any other loaded term our minds will cling to those early associations, often without question.

The fault, then, is not in the individual but in the system. The way we are educated, the way words are explained to us, and the images we are made to associate with those words can lead to lifelong misunderstandings. Our brains, having stored these early images, become resistant to alternative interpretations. This resistance often leads to ignorance or a refusal to accept new or broader meanings. It’s why so many of us, even as adults, find it difficult to accept knowledge that challenges our deeply ingrained beliefs.

For example, if the word "mutiny" was taught to us as something inherently negative, an act of rebellion or betrayal, that’s the image we will continue to carry, regardless of whether we encounter alternative perspectives. Even if someone tries to explain the nuances or positive aspects of a mutiny, our minds may reject the new information because we have already "decided" on its meaning based on early conditioning.

This cognitive rigidity isn't necessarily a personal flaw, it’s a byproduct of the way information is presented to us throughout our lives. The root of the problem lies in the education system and the fact that many of our teachers, parents, and mentors were never trained to challenge these preconceived notions. They may have passed on limited knowledge or one-sided interpretations because they too were taught in the same way. As a result, a cycle of ignorance perpetuates itself.

However, acknowledging this problem does not mean we should stop spreading knowledge. On the contrary, it highlights the urgent need for more comprehensive and open-minded approaches to education. We must move beyond the narrow definitions and restrictive images we’ve been conditioned to accept. True knowledge comes not from clinging to a single perspective, but from engaging with different viewpoints and being open to new interpretations.

Many people are content with the knowledge they inherited from their parents or learned in school, and they see it as the ultimate truth. This mindset can close the door to further learning and prevent them from seeing the world in a more nuanced or informed way. But it is crucial to recognize that no knowledge is ever complete, and being willing to question what we think we know is the first step toward true understanding.

In conclusion, the images and associations stored in our brains shape our perception of the world. Much of what we think and believe is a product of the way we were taught, the societal context we grew up in, and the images our brains were conditioned to accept. If we want to break free from these limitations, we must challenge our preconceived notions and remain open to learning and growth. Only then can we truly begin to understand the world around us in all its complexity?

Written by: IBY