Final answer:
Watson and Fischer suggest that fantasy play develops from cognitive decoupling, the skill of imagination originating in childhood which allows us to predict behaviors in various contexts, influential in acts from everyday interactions to artistic performances.
Step-by-step explanation:
Watson and Fischer proposed that fantasy play develops based on our ability to use cognitive decoupling to imagine what others would do or say, even when they are not present. This skill originates from childhood through pretend play. As we grow, our imagination draws on experiences and texts, like religious narratives, to envision even omnipotent, omniscient beings. In doing so, we use our general beliefs about the world to infer and predict responses and behaviors in a variety of situations. When it comes to art and performance, this practice translates to belief and commitment to the reality of a role for actors. This immersion in the imagined circumstances fosters authentic responses and performances. This imaginative capability is not just useful for childhood development or the arts, but also influences how we interact with the entertainment we consume, like video games, and how we engage with fiction. Our subjective reality, powered by imagination, shapes our perspectives and can even influence actual events, creating a feedback loop where imagined possibilities affect real-world outcomes.