The term "tunnel vision" is spelled with two n's and two l's. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ˈtʌnəl ˈvɪʒn/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound and the "n" is followed by a schwa. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the "v" is followed by a syllable-final voiced "zh" sound. When we say "tunnel vision," we refer to the perceptual phenomenon where one becomes overly focused on a single idea, task, or point of view.
Tunnel vision is a term used to describe a limited or narrow perspective on a particular subject, resulting in an inability to consider alternative viewpoints or information. It refers to an individual's focus becoming so intense and narrow that peripheral details or alternative explanations are overlooked or disregarded.
This term originated from the phenomenon observed while inside a tunnel, where one's field of vision is restricted to a narrow path straight ahead, with little to no visibility on either side. Similarly, tunnel vision in a figurative sense describes a cognitive bias or mental state where an individual becomes fixated on a particular idea, belief, or course of action, neglecting to consider other potential possibilities or information that may contradict their singular perspective.
Tunnel vision may arise due to a variety of factors, such as personal biases, emotional attachments, preconceived notions, or limited exposure to different ideas. It can hinder critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, as it limits the capacity to objectively assess all available information. Tunnel vision is often associated with close-mindedness, stubbornness, and an unwillingness to entertain diverse or dissenting opinions.
While tunnel vision can occur in various contexts, it is frequently discussed in domains like law enforcement, where investigators might become overly focused on a single suspect, ignoring or dismissing other potential leads or evidence that might provide a more comprehensive understanding of a situation. Recognizing and overcoming tunnel vision is crucial for fostering open-mindedness, promoting creativity, and ensuring well-informed decision-making.
The word "tunnel vision" is a combination of two separate words with distinct etymologies - "tunnel" and "vision".
1. "Tunnel" comes from Middle English "tonel", derived from Old French "tunel" or "tunelle", meaning a funnel-shaped net for catching birds. It later evolved to refer to a passage underground or through a hill. The word "tunnel" entered the English language around the 15th century.
2. "Vision" originates from the Latin word "visio", meaning "sight" or "to see". In the late 14th century, it was borrowed into Middle English as "visioun", eventually becoming "vision".