Approaches to Understanding Perception Quiz

Questions and Answers

Which theory of perception emphasizes the role of top-down processing, where people actively construct their perceptions based on expectations and prior knowledge?

Constructive perception theory

According to the Ebbinghaus size illusion, how does the perception of the size of one object (the orange circle) get influenced by the size of another object (the black circles)?

The orange circle appears larger when the black circles are smaller.

What is the key difference between the direct perception theory and the constructive perception theory in terms of their focus?

Direct perception theory focuses on identifying and combining elementary features, while constructive perception theory focuses on actively constructing perceptions.

Which of the following is an example of how top-down processing can influence perception, as discussed in the text?

The perception of an ambiguous letter being influenced by the context in which it is presented. Signup and view all the answers

What is the key insight from the recognition-by-components (RBC) theory proposed by Biederman?

Objects are recognized by perceiving simple 3D shapes called 'geons'. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the modern psychological perspective on the role of experience in perception?

Experience is a central component that shapes and influences perceptual processes. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following perceptual cues is NOT mentioned in the text as contributing to the perception of depth?

$\pi$ disparity (binocular disparity) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary factor that determines the perceived size of an object?

The combination of bottom-up and top-down processing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the light-from-above heuristic?

The assumption that light comes from above, influencing the interpretation of shadows as cues for 3D shape Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a semantic regularity governing perception?

The co-occurrence and thematic relation of objects in the environment Signup and view all the answers

Which principle of Gestalt psychology is most likely responsible for perceiving (a) as (b) and not as (c)?

Symmetry Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between bottom-up and top-down processing in perception, as described in the text?

Bottom-up processing is driven by sensory information, while top-down processing is driven by an individual's prior knowledge and expectations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main message or conclusion that can be drawn from the text's discussion of bottom-up and top-down processing in perception?

Perception is a dynamic and interactive process that involves a balance of bottom-up and top-down information. Signup and view all the answers

What are the key heuristics used for efficient interpretation of ambiguous visual input?

Gestalt principles, physical regularities, and semantic regularities Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, what is the key difference between simple and complex cells in the striate cortex?

Simple cells have clearly divided excitatory and inhibitory receptive fields, while complex cells do not. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point of the passage regarding the role of illusions in the study of visual perception?

Illusions are opportunities to learn how the visual system really works. Signup and view all the answers

How does the passage characterize the relationship between perception and the external world?

Perception is never an exact copy of the external world, but is strongly influenced by top-down knowledge. Signup and view all the answers