Thread: The Definition of a Dream

Originally posted by Doc Holliday
I was running through my EXTENSIVE research of lucidity and dream control when i realized that perhaps the reason I was having so much trouble learning and teaching Lucid Dreaming is because i dont really have a real grasp of the scientific definition of a dream. Can anyone enlighten me on this subject? Mainly what happens during the REM cycle.

Do you want to know what a dream is or what sleep is? Because dreaming simply occurrs during the REM cycle.. but if you want to know more about the physiology of sleep, see my tutorial "Physiology of Sleep".

My definition of a dream:
An introverted manifestation of the primary thoughts and concerns of the individual through psychological associations and symbolism. These associations and symbols propagated throughout the experience and psychological development of the individual's life.

I could quarrel over this definition forever... I think the best way to postulate what I think dreams are is to think of dreams as the projection of thoughts. That's the most simple explanation I can produce on what a dream is; the projection of thoughts and emotions through sensory recall.

Bah.. I think that'll do.. but I don't like them.. I'll think of one.

*Is reminded of Phillip K. Dick's quest for the definiton of "reality"*

much thanks, great definition mate. I'm trying to grasp why certain methods work for some but not for others, perhaps it is ones personality or ourlook on life. But with a clear cut definition of a dream, i may be able to comprhend whats going on in ones mind during REM sleep.

Originally posted by Doc Holliday
i may be able to comprhend whats going on in ones mind during REM sleep.

What do you mean by that...? The physiology of our brain during sleep/dreaming or the biological influences on dreaming...? Perhaps you are interested in the theory that dreams are somatically induced...??