The Role of Spatial Stimuli in the Perception of Shape.: Part I

Abstract

Arising from earlier studies of shape constancy (Langdon, 1951; 1953) an attempt is made to examine the rôle of spatial-surround cues in shape perception, as distinct from cues provided by the object. A series of shapes is compared in total darkness, firstly with shapes stationary and secondly with shapes rotating continuously. The findings are compared with those obtained in normal illuminated surrounds. The results indicate that surround cues play an important part in perception of orientation, and hence perception of shape. An explanation is suggested involving the use of surround cues as “anchorage” or “reference” frames. This is investigated further in Part II of this paper by an attempt to modify the character of the surround cues in a controlled way.