Power to perceive

The study of perception is central to psychology, and a wealth of interacting processes underlies our perception. A challenge in teaching perception lies in conveying an appreciation of the complexity of the tasks performed by our sensory systems.

In Visual Perception , Steven Yantis has compiled a collection of key papers on visual perception, ranging from early vision to attention and awareness. The book provides a broad source of readings on the theoretical, psychological and neurobiological approaches to vision.

Fundamentals of Sensation and Perception integrates the cognitive and physiological aspects of perception. The third edition has been extensively revised and is accompanied by a CD that brings to life the physiology of nerve cells in the retina and visual cortex. The book is suitable for an advanced undergraduate or graduate-level course in perception for psychology or neuroscience students.

Perception by Paul Rookes and Jane Willson is an introductory book that begins with theories of perception and perceptual organisation. It also covers perceptual development and differences in perception. It is suitable for high-school students and struggling undergraduates.

The second edition of Nicholas Wade and Michael Swanson's Visual Perception focuses on the function of vision for an observer in a 3D environment. It is strong on the historical development of the study of vision rather than its technical or computational aspects. I would recommend it as an intermediate-level undergraduate textbook.

Colin W. G. Clifford is senior lecturer in psychology, University of Sydney, Australia.