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The Ecological Approach to Visual Perception
332 pages, 1986
science & nature
1064 books
philosophy
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design
194 books
arts & entertainment
401 booksUnderstanding how we see is a fascinating topic, yet most of us take it for granted. In this book, you will discover that our perception of the world around us -- from its surfaces, their layout, and their colors and textures; where we are in the environment; whether or not we are moving and, if we are, where we are going; what things are good for; how to do things (to thread a needle or drive an automobile); or why things look as they do -- depends on the eyes in the head on a body supported by the ground. When no constraints are put on the visual system, people look around and move around so as to see something from all sides. This means that natural vision involves looking and walking not just within our field of view, but also outside it at any desired distance away from us. It also means that vision can be done with either one eye or both eyes simultaneously -- looking over an object with one eye while walking around it with both eyes. That's natural vision!
In 'The Ecological Approach to Visual Perception', James J. Gibson challenges the traditional view of perception. He argues that perception is not just a passive reception of information, but an active process. This means we don't just see things, we explore and interact with our environment to understand it.
One of the key ideas Gibson introduces is the concept of 'affordances'. This refers to the potential actions or uses that an object or environment offers to an observer. For example, a chair affords sitting, a ball affords throwing. This concept can change the way you see and interact with the world around you.
Gibson suggests that we perceive the world directly, without needing to interpret or process information. This idea, known as 'direct perception', is a radical departure from traditional theories. It's a fascinating concept to explore, and it might just change the way you think about how you see the world.
Movement plays a crucial role in Gibson's theory. He believes that our perception is shaped by our movement through the environment. This means that the way we move can change the way we perceive things. So, next time you're out for a walk, try to notice how your perception changes as you move.
Finally, Gibson argues that perception has evolved for survival. We perceive the world in a way that helps us navigate and interact with it effectively. This perspective can give you a new appreciation for the power and importance of perception in our daily lives.
