Visual System III

Abstract

In considering how the visual system processes information, we encounter again the themes of parallel and hierarchical processing. One manifestation of parallel processing is the existence of separate “labeled lines” originating from rods and cones. But as we see later, there are other forms of parallel processing that involve the two types of bipolar neurons (which form both invaginating and flat synapses). In terms of hierarchical processing, the overall story is reminiscent of the somatosensory system. At each level, cells respond best to more and more complicated stimulus parameters. As a result, neurons at progressively higher levels of the neural processing hierarchy “represent” particular stimulus configurations.