Question

How is perception defined? Are there several definitions? If so, then list all the definitions you have found and give an example of each one. How does perception influence our world and our daily interactions with one another? Give at least two examples of this. In your opinion is the phrase, "Perception is reality" a truth or fallacy? Why or why not? As you complete the exercises and visit the websites, do you find that your own definition and personal perception have changed? Why or why not? Make sure to review the grading rubric below. You must notate the total TIME ON TASK for your title page, or points will be deducted for the missing time. Submit completed Assignment. Be thorough and provide additional research citing real-world examples

Answer 1

According to Joseph Reitz, “Perception includes all those processes by which an individual receives information about his environment—seeing, hearing, feeling, tasting and smelling (sensory input). The study of these perpetual processes shows that their functioning is affected by three classes of variables—the objects or events being perceived, the environment in which perception occurs and the individual doing the perceiving.”

Perception has a great hand in how we perceive and interpret our circumscribing environment. Perception refers to the intake of stimulus through the sensory modes, which further leads to identification and (mis)interpretation of the stimuli that is based upon and looked at through the lens of an individual attitudes and schemas, which affects an individuals reaction and action towards his/her perceived surroundings. A perfect, but hyperbolic (for the solitary purpose of grasping the concept) example would be the difference between the perception of an average normal individual of a given stimulus and that of an individual impaired by social anxiety: The former person would view a pool of people as an average, not worrisome situation, but the latter person, on the other hand, would view the situation as a great threat to their social image so on and so forth. Perception is a very important variant in comprehending the various shades of an individuals personality.  

"Perception is reality," might be the truth for a certain individual at a given situation, but it might not be a collective truth for a group of people, but a fallacy. The entire discipline of psychology is based on the premise that each individual is different because each individual sees things differently, as each individual experiences things differently, and they are product of these aspects.

Hence, perception is reality might hold some ground on an individual level, but not on a collective level as there would always be the prevalence of difference of opinions due to different perception of certain stimulus; this boundary can be seen more clearly, especially if people of different ethnic backgrounds are made to experience and give an interpretation of an apparent similar stimulus.