Perceptual Sequencing and Higher Level Activation

Abstract

Having examined the problem of sequencing in action, I turn now to the problem of perception, especially the problem of how we perceive input sequences in proper serial order when we do and improper order when we make errors. As in the previous chapter, I will begin with some general constraints that apply to any theory of perception and then construct a node structure theory of perception that incorporates these general constraints and makes predictions for future test.

The purpose of perception is not to produce an end-product (such as a percept), but to constrain actions in such a way as to continuously reveal useful aspects of the environment.

(Michaels & Carello, 1981, p. 95).

The much-worked claim that “illusions” and “failures of perception” are instances of failed inference… has about as much intellectual force as a cough in the night.

(Turvey, Shaw, Reed, & Mace, 1980, p. 275).