Képzetek

Képzetek, or mental representations, are formed by sensory perception, memory, and imagination, and they encompass impressions, notions, and beliefs about people, objects, and events. In Hungarian, the word can refer to a vivid mental image (kép) or a broader notion about reality. The plural képzetek covers both perceptual images and more abstract beliefs.

In philosophy and psychology, képzetek are akin to mental representations, similar to "mental images" or "concepts" in English. They differ from knowledge or facts (ismeret) by their basis in perception and interpretation rather than verified evidence. They can function as cognitive shortcuts and influence decisions and attitudes. The concept is related to schemas, schemata, biases, and preconceptions.

Formation and content: képzetek arise from direct perception, memory recall, and imaginative construction. They are shaped by language, culture, education, and prior experiences, and they are prone to distortion through cognitive biases and social influence.

Types: sensory képzetek (visual or auditory images arising from experience), conceptual képzetek (broad notions or theories about the world), and preconceptions or stereotypes (előítéletek) that color interpretation before encountering fresh data. In everyday use, someone can have a positive or negative képzet of a place or person.

See also: perception, impression, notion, belief, stereotype, schema.