Gibson's direct theory of perception

Overview

Bottom-up processing, the optic array and motion parallax, the visual cliff study and the nature side of the debate, and the problem visual illusions pose for the theory.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What is the main claim of Gibson's direct theory of perception?

   Model answer

   Gibson claimed that perception is direct. The light reaching the eyes carries enough information to perceive the world accurately, without any need for inference.

2. 2

   What is meant by bottom-up processing?

   Model answer

   Bottom-up processing means perception is driven by the information arriving at the senses. Past knowledge and expectations play no part.

3. 3

   What did Gibson mean by the optic array?

   Model answer

   The optic array is the pattern of light reaching the eye from every surface in the environment. Gibson argued it contains all the information needed for perception.

4. 4

   Why is Gibson's theory linked to the nature side of the nature–nurture debate?

   Model answer

   Gibson believed the ability to perceive the world is innate. Humans have evolved to pick up information from the environment directly, without needing to learn how.

5. 5

   What is motion parallax?

   Model answer

   Motion parallax is the way objects at different distances appear to move at different speeds as we move. Nearer objects seem to pass faster than distant ones.

6. 6

   Looking out of a moving train, why do nearby fence posts seem to rush past while distant hills barely move?

   Model answer

   The fence posts rush past because of motion parallax. Close objects cross the visual field quickly, while far objects cross it slowly.

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