The goal of this paper is to systematize the variety of philosophical arguments as to whether mental images relate, and to link them to appropriate psychological research against the background of the imagery debate. The following subdivision is proposed: (1) copy, (2) similarity and schema, (3) language-based and (4) functionalist approaches. These are presented by typical representatives and their stance. The problematic subjects resulting from these philosophical argumentations are summarized and contrasted to previous psychological studies. The corresponding desiderata are discussed.