Two Models of Mind Blanking

TL;DR

This paper explores the neural and cognitive mechanisms of mind blanking, proposing combined EEG and TMS methods to distinguish between different types and origins of this mental state.

Contribution

It introduces a multifaceted approach using neuroimaging and neuromodulation to better understand the neural basis of mind blanking and its spontaneous or intentional nature.

Findings

Potential neural correlates of mind blanking identified

Distinction between content lack and content determinability proposed

Methodological framework for future research suggested

Abstract

Mind blanking is a mental state in which attention does not bring any perceptual input into conscious awareness. As this state is still largely unexplored, we suggest that a comprehensive understanding of mind blanking can be achieved through a multifaceted approach combining self-assessment methods, neuroimaging, and neuromodulation. In this article, we explain how EEG and TMS could be combined to help determine whether mind blanking is associated with a lack of mental content or a lack of linguistically or conceptually determinable mental content. We also question whether mind blanking occurs spontaneously or intentionally and whether these two forms are instantiated by the same or different neural correlates.