Scientists refute the myth that there is no thinking in ordinary dreams. For a long time, it was believed that a person can conduct logical analyses and make rational decisions only when awake or in a lucid dream (i.e., a dream in which they realize they are dreaming). But US researcher Miloslava Kozmova has proven otherwise.
The author analyzed 75 dreams in which people encountered problems and looked for solutions. She used a classification of 36 types of metacognitive assessments (the ability to evaluate one’s thoughts and actions) developed earlier by other scientists (Fox and Christoff), who claimed that metacognition is possible only in lucid dreams and when awake.
The results were unexpected: even in ordinary dreams, people used 34 of the 36 types of metacognitive assessments when faced with difficulties. This means that our subconscious is capable of analyzing situations, making decisions, and even applying defense mechanisms during ordinary dreams. The data calls into question the established opinion that deactivated neural connections don’t allow us to engage in critical thinking during ordinary dreams.
Have you had any ordinary dreams in which you thought clearly and found solutions to complex problems?
The report was presented in June 2025 at the 42nd Annual Conference of the International Association for the Study of Dreams.
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