Question

In this discussion talk about top-down processing and why the brain interprets the information in the way that it does. Explain your OPINON on top-down processing the topic as well. Also, Provide the definition of both sensation and perception, as well as stimuli, In your own words. How do they differ? How are they related?

Answer 1

Sensation involves detecting and translating stimuli (environmental) by our sense organs into nerval impulses, which are then forwarded (sent) to brain.

Perception is interpreting (making sense) the information from the senses, it involves organizing the incoming stimulus input and assigning meaning to it.

Stimuli refers to those events or objects which trigger behavioral or sensory response in an organism.

Top-down Processing is when we understand information (form perceptions) by beginning with larger idea, concept or object, before getting into more detailed description or detailed information. It includes going from the general idea to the specifics of it. It includes interpreting information with respect to the already existing knowledge, ideas, concepts, and expectations. Top down processing occurs as one comprehends words and sentences to make sense of what is being written online.  

Perception is majorly said to be a part of (is included in) top-down processing as it occurs when brain interprets sensory information, and transfers the corresponding signals further to sense organs for response.

Brain interprets the information the way it does as if the environmental stimuli is not identified first, and nerval impulses are not forwarded to brain, one cannot make sense or organize the information, and give meaning to it, without the initial information. If the brain does not process the information the way it does, then the environmental stimuli shall remain ambiguous, and it would be difficult for humans to function.

For instance, Top-down processing is also involved in understanding the aforementioned phenomena, one cannot understand the difference between sensation and perception without understanding the elementary definition of both, and one cannot make sense of why brain interprets information in a certain way without knowing the basic processes involved (sensation and perception). Top down processing is involved in studying and understanding concepts in one’s day to day life.

Relation between sensation and perception

Sensation and perception are processes that happen together, and aid in identifying and comprehending (assigning meaning) to environmental stimuli. Perception cannot take place without sensation, and without perception, the sensations will remain ambiguous, as there would be no processing (mental) of the sensed information.

Difference between sensation and perception

Sensation	Perception
Sensation is physical, it involves being aware of environmental stimuli.	Perception involves assigning meaning to what is sensed.
In sensation, combination, or organization of stimuli is not required.	Perception involves combination, organization of stimuli to give it meaning.
Sensation happens first.	Perception follows (happens after) sensation.
For instance, hearing some sound	For instance, understanding that music is being played.