Perceptual theories—direct, indirect, and computational
Brian Rogers
Perception: A Very Short Introduction October 26, 2017 DOI: 10.1093/actrade/9780198791003.003.0002 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Describes three conceptions of perception: indirect or constructivist theory, traced to Helmholtz, which holds that experience shapes perception and that perception's purpose is subjective experience; direct theory, proposed by Gibson, which holds that perception primarily guides action; and computational modeling of perceptual processes since the 1960s, most influentially by David Marr. |
Abstract
Abstract: ‘Perceptual theories—direct, indirect, and computational’ considers three different conceptions of what it means to perceive and the processes involved in each theory. The origins of indirect or constructivist theory can be traced back to Hermann von Helmholtz in the 19th century, who emphasized the importance of experience in shaping our perceptual abilities. It was assumed that the primary purpose of perception was to create subjective experiences. The American psychologist James Gibson first suggested a direct theory—that the primary role of perceptual processes was to guide action. Since the 1960s, there have been many attempts to model the perceptual processes using computer algorithms, with David Marr at MIT being the most influential figure.