When you are asked to "clear your mind and think of nothing," this tends to be a very difficult feat to accomplish.Various images,thoughts,and "sounds" go flashing through your mind.The harder you try to think of nothing,the harder it is to think of nothing.Based on your reading of the chapter,why is "clear your mind" such a paradoxical instruction?
A) Because you are being given this instruction when you are surrounded by stimuli. Even if you close your eyes, the incoming information is impossible to block out.
B) Because the electrical impulses of the brain make the concept of "thinking of nothing" an impossibility.
C) Because your attention has been directed toward your own thoughts, which makes it difficult not to think of anything.
D) Because the physiological processes involved in thinking of "nothing" can only function when you are asleep or otherwise unconscious.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The instruction to "clear your mind and think of nothing" is paradoxical because it directs your attention to your own thoughts, making it difficult not to think of anything. Essentially, the instruction can set off a cascade of thoughts that can be difficult to control or stop. Additionally, the brain is wired to constantly process information, so it is virtually impossible to completely think of nothing. Therefore, the instruction is contradictory and nearly impossible to achieve.

When You Are Asked to "Clear Your Mind and Think