Are dreams desires
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Are Dreams Desires?
Dreams as Expressions of Desires in Different Cultures
Dreams have long been a subject of fascination and study across various cultures and disciplines. In many societies, dreams are seen as more than just random images or thoughts; they are often considered expressions of deep-seated desires and intentions. For instance, among the Barok people of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea, dreams are viewed as both sleeping and waking experiences that express the desires and intents of spiritually powerful individuals. These dreams are believed to be true and effective in creating or foretelling reality, suggesting a strong link between dreams and desires.
Psychological Perspectives on Dreams and Desires
From a psychological standpoint, dreams have been interpreted as manifestations of unconscious desires. Freud's theory posits that dreams are a way for the unconscious mind to fulfill wishes that cannot be satisfied in waking life. This idea is supported by the notion that dreams often involve scenarios where the dreamer achieves something they desire but cannot attain in reality. Similarly, daydreams are often seen as a way for individuals to mentally achieve their desires without actively striving for them, further linking dreams to the concept of desire.
Cultural and Historical Interpretations of Dreams
Cultural and historical contexts also play a significant role in how dreams are interpreted. In many cultures, dreams are seen as metaphors for both desires and fears. They are considered a "cultural act" that channels parts of the human experience, including emotions, identities, and everyday life. This perspective highlights the idea that dreams are not just personal fantasies but are deeply embedded in cultural and historical narratives.
The Ambiguity of Intent in Dreams
The ambiguity of intent in dreams is another aspect that connects them to desires. In Western cultures, dreams are often seen as private fantasies with unclear intentions, which contrasts with the clarity of intent observed in the dreams of some indigenous cultures. This ambiguity can lead to a lack of creative power in dreams, making them seem less effective in fulfilling desires.
Conclusion
In summary, dreams are closely linked to desires across various cultural, psychological, and historical contexts. Whether viewed as expressions of spiritual power, manifestations of unconscious wishes, or cultural metaphors, dreams often reflect the innermost desires of individuals. This multifaceted nature of dreams underscores their significance in understanding human desires and intentions.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic