To Sleep, Perchance to Dream

Abstract

We are both fascinated and frightened by our dreams. Why do we have these strange images and stories during our sleep, and what do they mean? In this culture we are reluctant to discuss the content of our dreams in case they are seen to be a sign of a disturbed mind, so we often keep the products of our sleeping activity to ourselves. However, the topic remains fascinating for everyday conversation and also for scientific enquiry.