Explores modern thinking on visual perception, including discussion of seven major theoretical approaches such as the Gestalt Theory, Ecological Optics and Computational Theory of Vision. Shows the ways in which general theories of visual perception can differ and how these theories approach the same cluster of phenomena in dissimilar ways, explaining them by very different concepts. Key phenomena are described clearly and theoretical explanations are included as well as explicit procedural details. References are listed at the end of each chapter for further research. Extensively illustrated.
A succinct, well written and fairly comprehensive view of research relating to visual perception with clear thinking around the context of the theories, arguments and differences between them. One realises after reading this reference book that there is still a long way to go, even after much research over many years there is more still to be discovered and validated. I found the book particularly good to include research relating to AI, Neural networks and computing along with views of the historical work of Gestalt proponents (and everything in between). Ian writes well, it's easy to digest and understand even when some of the older research would be particularly hard to comprehend or even rationalise. 5 stars for this as that's exactly why I bought it. The book includes diagrams including alternate theories in periods of time they were published. I highly recommend it. It also includes full references for people to follow up themselves in much more detail.
It is a very understandable and easy to read book if you are interested in how we perceive the world. I was utilized it especially in the sections about ecological and constructivist approaches.