Pronunciation: [fˈɒtɪzəm] (IPA) 
The word "Photism" is often spelled with confusion due to its unique pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈfoʊtɪzəm/. The first syllable "foh" sounds like the word "phone" but with an "f" sound. The second syllable "tiz" rhymes with "this". The final syllable is pronounced with a short "uh" sound like in "duh". The word "Photism" refers to a visual image caused by a stimulus of neural activity in the brain.
Photism refers to a psychological phenomenon characterized by the perception of vivid and colorful visual imagery in response to external stimuli or mental processes, mainly during states of altered consciousness, such as meditation, trance, or certain types of sensory deprivation. During photism experiences, people perceive hallucinatory visual scenes, patterns, or flashes of light that are often described as intense and vibrant.
These visual images are not derived from external sensory input but rather are generated internally by the person's mind or brain. Photism can occur spontaneously or be induced through various techniques, such as flickering lights or specific meditation practices. It is important to note that photism is different from ordinary mental imagery, as it involves the presence of seemingly real and vivid visuals that can be strikingly similar to external visual stimuli.
The phenomenon of photism has long been of interest to psychologists, neuroscientists, and practitioners of altered states of consciousness. While the exact neural mechanisms underlying photism are still not fully understood, it is believed to involve the interaction between the visual cortex and other brain regions responsible for sensory processing, memory, and emotion. Researchers continue to explore the potential significance and applications of photism, including its therapeutic potential in various psychological conditions.
The production of a subjective sensation of light or color by a stimulus to another sense organ, such as of hearing, taste, or touch.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "photism" is derived from the Greek word "phōtismós", which comes from the root word "phōs" meaning "light". In Greek, "phōtismós" refers to the act of shining or giving off light. In the context of vision and perception, the term "photism" specifically denotes the perception or experience of light, often associated with neurological or visual phenomena.
