The Visual Perception of Distance

Abstract

In order to observe and to determine something about the character of the visual perception of distance, I shall offer an illustrative experience of visual remoteness and closeness freed, so far as possible, from ordinary sophistications. This illustration will lead to two descriptive definitions of distance and nearness which are intended to be faithful interpretations of the actual experience. After some introductory — or reductory — remarks, the further consideration of this topic will divide conveniently into three sections: distance and object-properties; distance and object identity; distance and object-context. As these headings suggest, an assumption will be made which a philosopher would accept only temporarily: viz. that the perceiving of objects is an obvious occurrence and can be taken for granted. But before finishing I intend to return to this assumption with some indication of its derivative character.