Expert: Walter Hintz - 10/29/2006

Question
On 4/27/2006 Sam asked a question about seeing strange people's faces when his eyes are closed.  I do, too, with the same types of expressions, and they quickly morph in and out of each other.  Any further insights?

Expert: Walter Hintz
Date: 4/27/2006
Subject: Seeing things when my eyes are closed

Question
Hi,

I am curious as to why I see clear, moving images of people's faces (not people I recognise) when I close my eyes. Sometimes they seem to be looking at me with curious or occasionally horrified expressions, other times they just seem to float aimlessly.

I am aware of the existence of floaters, string-like structures, flashing lights and colours etc and why they occur (having experienced all of the above on a regular basis due to migraines and short-sightedness) However, no-one has been able to explain the faces I see (other than it just being my imagination)

Basic internet research has revealed a few others who experience this also but has given no answers as to why.

Hope you can help or perhaps point me in the right direction.



Get the answer below
Sponsored Links
Cheat on biology homework
Stuck? Get answers safe & fast. Get paid for helping others. Nice.
studentoffortune.com

Marine Biology for Teens
Learn Marine Biology and more this summer on a live-aboard yacht.
www.seatrekbvi.com

Cure Eye Floaters
Use Modern Psychology to Cure Eye Floaters.
www.NoEyeFloaters.com

Answer
Hi Sam
 I am afraid that I must join all of the others who can offer no explanation for this. It appears that there is no answer. Frankly this sounds a bit scary.
Our visual images are stored in the occipital lobe of the brain.  I can visualize faces that I know but do not actually see them but I cannot visualize a face of someone I do not know.
 Perhaps a psychologist would have an answer.  

Answer
Hi Steve;
 People can perceive of visual images with the eyes closed as they do in dreams because of visual memories in the occipital region of the brain.  If I close my eyes I can visualize the face of somebody I know cannot form an image of someone I have never seen before.
  Your visual experiences seem to occur in a lot of individuals but I must direct you to the information that I gave to Sam.  I do not believe there is any supernatural explanation for this phenomenon however.