Module 10: Mental Modules

Modularity

The theory that the mind is composed of distinct, independent modules or specialized subsystems, each responsible for specific cognitive functions.

Blind Spot

A small area in the visual field where the optic nerve exits the eye, lacking photoreceptors and is insensitive to light.

Trichromatic Processing

The theory of color vision stating that our perception of color is based on the activity of three types of cone photoreceptor cells in the retina.

Opponent Processing

A theory of color vision suggesting that color perception is based on three opposing pairs of colors: red-green, blue-yellow, and black-white.

Sensation

The initial stage of processing involving the detection and encoding of raw sensory information from the environment by sensory receptors.

Perception

The process of organizing, interpreting, and giving meaning to sensory information, allowing recognition of objects and events.

Bottom-up Processing

Perceptual processing driven by sensory input that proceeds from basic elements to more complex interpretation.

Top-down Processing

Perceptual processing influenced by prior knowledge, expectations, beliefs, and context.

Constancy

The tendency to perceive objects as having stable properties despite variations in sensory information.

Perceptual Grouping

The process by which our visual system organizes individual elements into unified and meaningful objects or patterns.

Encapsulation

The idea that certain cognitive processes operate independently and are informationally isolated from other cognitive systems.

Cognitive Penetrability

The extent to which higher-level cognitive processes can influence lower-level perceptual or cognitive processing.

Prosopagnosia

A neurological disorder characterized by the inability to recognize faces, despite recognizing other objects.

Blindsight

A condition resulting from damage to the visual cortex where individuals report being blind but can unconsciously respond to stimuli.