Perception

Does our perception form from nature or nurture? Gestalt’s perception theory proves that humans will generally group things in colour, shape, size and distance (relativity). Let’s use two imaginary figures, Tom and Suzy. Having a look at the diagram above, Tom and others would generally “group” the items in rows according to colour (similarity).

However, some Suzy and others would argue that the correct way of grouping is actually in columns. This is because they see the similarity in shape and sizes instead of colour, making them group the items in columns. It has been noted that Suzy’s parents group the objects above in rows. Referring to the earlier paragraph, it appears that our perception is possibly formed by nature. Science states that we inherit 40-50% from each parent, and less than 10% is gained from the environment. This might not be true in all cases as seen in the example. Suzy’s parents and Suzy perceived things differently from one another, and therefore argues a controversy towards genetically inherited abilities (perception in this case). So is our perception actually formed by nurture? The social learning theory states that children learn by observing other people’s actions. The likelihood of repetition is depended on an expected positive outcome. It could have been possible for other people’s perception to influence Suzy’s way of grouping. This relates to the theory of conformity as most people would conform due to low self-esteem while within a large group. Nurture may explain these certain aspects, but it cannot fully prove that our perception is formed by it. Not everyone is able to see in the same way, and will therefore not force themselves to conform towards other’s beliefs. The worldwide nature vs. nurture debate has so far stated that both elements must work together as a continuum in order to help us function. Environmental factors and genetic abilities are needed to produce our perception; nurture helps bring out our natural perception and perhaps modify it a bit.

What is your opinion about the formation of our perception?
Would it be possible to change our perception overtime?
What sort of methods could be used to change our perception?

P.S. please comment on the picture above, rows or columns? (Rows are these things ----columns are these )

Composed by Tiffany and Alex. Ray “the cool one”
Due: Monday 25th May, 2009
Bibliography
Acton, G. (2001, May 17). Behaviour Genetics. Retrieved May 19, 2009, from Great ides in Personality: http://www.personalityresearch.org/bg.html
Heffner Media Group.Inc. (2004, April 21). Psychology 101. Retrieved May 18, 2008, from AllPsych Online: http://allpsych.com/psychology101/perception.html