From Images to knowledge

Our vision sense may provide slow data, but it is the most reliable. No wonder modern science relies on visualisation. Even other sensory perceptions such as pain or sound are turned into graphics to illustrate them. However, visualisations can also convey a false sense of security. Just as the brain constructs its own image of the world based on incomplete sensory impressions, science also bases theories on incomplete information. Distortions are inevitable when interpreting data.

• Gateways to the microcosm and the macrocosm
• Seeing clearly now
• The ‘eyes’ have it
• We do not see with eyes alone
• Timeline: Visualising knowledge over the centuries
• Editorial: Images ennoble the mind