The Perception of Three-Dimensional Solids

Abstract

Arising from the discussion of differences between three- and two-dimensional perceptual objects in relation to current theories, an attempt is made to extend the traditional type of shape-constancy investigation into the realm of three-dimensional solids. For this purpose a specially constructed “solid” is made to undergo progressive physical changes of shape while being compared, under controlled conditions, with various stationary two-dimensional projections.

The results indicate that three-dimensional solids possess perceptual properties not shared by simple surfaces or representational projections. It is suggested that changes in the magnitude and sign of the constant errors obtained under certain conditions can be explained only on the assumption that subjects react to the stimulus in terms of some conceptual schema, or reference frame, involving mental processes other than those of perception.

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