Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
done with the use of imagery, and are presumed
to produce two memory codes. In a process of
comprehension of abstract concepts in sentences,
concrete words are coded in both verbal and visual
memory, while it is presumed that the abstract ones
are coded in verbal memory. Many authors agree
that memory is better for learning concrete materi-
als than for abstract materials and is better with
the use of visual imagery. When people compare
sizes of objects, pictures work better than verbal
comparisons. Mental representations of visual
objects may involve unconscious computations
of moving objects and conscious knowledge of
meaning of the object.
We can visualize our thinking as well as ver-
balize it. We can think in pictures, not in a linear,
sequential fashion that is typical of talking. With
images, linear information can be translated into
spatial metaphors. Graphic imaging is considered
a means to reason about an arrangement of data, to
communicate, document, and preserve knowledge.
An approach to visual thinking as the interaction of
seeing, imaging, and idea sketching was strongly
influenced by Rudolf Arnheim, especially by his
topic “Visual Thinking” (1969/2004). Interrelation
of thought and speech can be seen as two inter-
locking circles, because not all of our thoughts are
spoken and sometimes we speak without thinking,
just repeating the thoughts of others thoughts (Vy-
gotsky, 1986). Also, we can present visual thinking
and graphic display as two interlocking circles;
not every graphic (visual) language involves visual
thinking and not always visual thinking is in the
form of the graphic display; for example, we use
symbols without thinking. Humor, caricature, or
grotesque make a message even sharper. A realisti-
cally drawn dog may be seen as having nothing to
say to the viewer unless it becomes a familiar dog
or a character in a story line where imaginary and
fantastic plot shows what is invisible in nature.
Also metaphors address some cognitive abilities
to abstract the essence of the message.
Visual thinking, defined sometimes as genera-
tion and manipulation of images that come both
from imagery and from the abstract systems, in-
volves visual processing beyond the definitions of
language. It often cannot be translated into verbal,
linear manner. Imagery is the essence of thinking
because we generate and manipulate images when
we think. We produce graphic images by apply-
ing graphic language to visual thinking, attaining
synthesis, using perceptual and mental imagery,
relying on intuition, and working at various levels
of consciousness (such as dreaming) outside the
realm of language thinking. As stated by Arnheim
(1969/2004), perceptual sensitivity, the ability to
see a visual order of shapes as patterned forces that
underlie our existence, helps the most gifted minds
with intuitive wisdom to avoid troubles with the
formalistic thought operations due to their brilliant
cross-circuits. According to Denis (1989), there is
an opposition between Symbolist theories (think-
ing occur in mental symbols and representations,
as media) and Conceptualist theories (mental
symbols are products of cognitive thinking about
conceptual and abstract entities). Robert Sternberg
(2007) discussed the interrelationships among
intelligence, creativity, and wisdom in adapting
to, shaping, and selecting environments. Interac-
tion with environment involves aspects relative to
creativity such as knowledge, styles of thinking,
personality, and motivation, with balance of these
personal attributes necessary to do creative work.
According to Sternberg,
Wisdom results from the application of successful
intelligence and creativity toward the common
good through a balancing of intrapersonal, in-
terpersonal, and extrapersonal interests over the
short and long terms. Wisdom is not just a way of
thinking about things; it is a way of doing things.
If people wish to be wise, they have to act wisely,
not just think wisely. We all can do this. Whether
we do is our choice. (Sternberg, 2007, p. 188)
Andrew Targowski (2011) argues, “wise
civilization cannot function without wise people
and vice versa, that wise people cannot function
