Sensation and Perception: Bottom-Up & Top-Down Processing

Bottom-up processing: Information derived directly from sensory input.
Top-down processing: Interpretation influenced by expectations, prior knowledge, and experiences.
Both processes work together for accurate and efficient perception; they are essentially inseparable.

Pre-existing expectations can significantly alter perception, sometimes causing us to miss obvious sensory information (e.g., large objects).
Stereotypes act as top-down expectations, influencing how we perceive others' behaviors and expressions.
Recognizing the impact of expectations on perception is crucial due to its broad implications, including social interactions.