All non-real worlds provide exploration: Evidence from developmental psychology

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Media Studies
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• The exploration of fictional environments is often attributed to an innate predisposition towards exploration.
• Existing theories, such as those by Dubourg and Baumard, suggest this drive leads individuals to engage with fictional settings.
• However, these perspectives do not fully address the unique nature of "imaginary" worlds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the core question: "Why Imaginary Worlds?"
• To differentiate the exploration of any fictional environment from that of real-world unfamiliar settings.
• To analyze the impact of the "imaginary" quality on the exploration process.

Main Methods:

• Review of research in developmental psychology, specifically pretend play.
• Analysis of theories and findings related to psychological distancing.
• Examination of principles and practices within theatrical performance.

Main Results:

• The "imaginary" nature of a fictional world, encompassing any form of unreality, is a critical factor.
• Exploration within these unreal, imaginary settings is fundamentally distinct from exploring unfamiliar real-life environments.
• This distinction is supported by evidence from studies on pretend play, psychological distancing, and theatre.

Conclusions:

• The "imaginary" attribute transforms the exploration experience, making it qualitatively different from real-world exploration.
• Understanding the nature of unreality is key to comprehending engagement with fictional worlds.
• Future research should further explore the cognitive and emotional mechanisms underlying this difference.