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An Historical Examination of the Perception of Witchcraft, 2002.
This paper looks at witchcraft and the effect that witches had on 17th century society.
8,568 words (approx. 34.3 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 181.95
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Abstract
The writer examines the debate on whether witches ever existed. This paper shows both sides of the argument and how they have changed over time. The paper tracks the historical treatment of witches and allows us to see a shift in our social focus, showing where we came from, where we are, and the ideas that shaped such a transformation.
From the Paper
"In his book An Historical Essay Concerning Witchcraft, Francis Hutchison tells the Fable of the Politick Ass. The fable concerns a young ass who, ?having a mind to pass as a beast of worship? (Hutchison, 28), wears the skin of a lion. He is soon detected, however; as he failed to notice one of his ears poking through the skin. Hutchison here warns us to always be on the lookout for a fraud, to not look at things as they first appear and take them to be hard fact. This warning makes us aware of the importance of scrutinizing the evidences that will be placed before us; to not blindly believe the confessions, testimonies, and judgments in the various cases of witchcraft to be studied. Beyond this implication, the warning also serves another purpose."
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Perception Theory, 2002.
A discussion of perception theory by analysis of J.J. Gibson's ecological approach and Marr's computational theory.
3,413 words (approx. 13.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 96.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the issue of perception in various fields, including philosophy and psychology has been debated with vigor over the last fifty years. In order to consider the theory of perception , it evaluates Gibson's ecological approach which believes there is no mediation from the mind between the object of perception and the perception event itself. The function of perception is thus one of adaptation and therefore the purpose of perception is then to adapt the organism to its environment. In contrast it compares this theory to Marr?s computational theory in which perception is seen from the neuropsychological level. Marr in fact compares the human visual system to a computer system. It analyzes how the computational theory appears to oppose the environmental theory in its paradigm that the mind mediates all that is perceived.
From the Paper
"In contrast to Gibson, Marr studies the deep recesses of the body in order to come to a conclusion about perception. This is a very scientific approach, whereas Gibson relied on data gathered from observers and from himself in a more philosophical paradigm. For Marr then a thorough study going beyond the anatomy and physiology of the retinal ganglion cells and lateral geniculate neurons is essential in order to understand the reasons for their receptive fields. Furthermore the connections and interactions of these cells are useful in understanding their behavior. However in order to understand the reasons for the nature of the receptive fields, it is necessary to study the phenomena of differential operators, band-pass channels, and the mathematics of the uncertainty principle."
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Perception, 2006.
An examination of the concept of perception in psychological theories.
1,851 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
Within the realm of cognitive psychology, the concept of perception is a controversial topic. Various approaches attempt to explain the concept of perception. Perception involves the relationship between the observer and the environment. For the purposes of this discussion, this paper focuses on evaluating two fundamental approaches to explaining perception: Direct perception theory and inferential theory.
From the Paper
"Furthermore the theory asserts that the retinae move in correlation with the visual world (Warren and Wertheim, 1990). As a result of such movement, the visual streaming action of the optic array relative to the retinae is described as the optic flow (Warren and Wertheim, 1990). In addition, these movements of the retinae in space occur because the eyes move with in their orbits, because the head shifts, because the whole observer is in motion, or any comparable combination (Warren and Wertheim, 1990). In Gibson's estimation, these factors are described as self-motion. (Warren and Wertheim, 1990)"
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Language, Thought and Perception, 2008.
An analysis of the influence of language upon thought and perception, and the influence of thought and perception upon language.
1,968 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
How much does our language influence what we can think and perceive? Indeed, does our language control what we can think and perceive? Conversely, do our thoughts and perceptions influence or even control our language? This paper explores these questions, and shows that - while it is difficult to say which comes first, as the process is clearly somewhat circular - it does seem that culture influences language more than language influences culture.
From the Paper
"Theories such as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which combine linguistic relativity and linguistic determinism, are useful in that they remind us of the relationships between culture and language. For example, in Canada the many aboriginal languages have died - and in terms of this hypothesis, this is one of the important reasons why aboriginal cultures are under threat. On the other hand, in South Africa, despite decades of colonial rule and then apartheid, the indigenous languages, such as Zulu and Xhosa, remained very strong. This was reflected in the fact that the indigenous cultures remained very strong - so it is certainly possible that the survival of the languages enabled the survival of the cultures. "
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Self-perception and Communication, 1991.
This paper discusses the role played by self-perception in effective communication: Self-image's impact on verbal & non-verbal exchanges. Vocation, family, society, appearance and accuracy of perception.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 5 sources, $ 63.95
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From the Paper
"This paper will be concerned with the role played by self-perception in effective communication. Communication is a process which involves two people: the person transmitting the communicated information and the person receiving it. In order for communication to be effective, there must be a good link between the two. This is true whether the communication takes place at home, at work, or in the society at large. The ability of a person to accurately receive communicated information is based in part on that person's perception of the communicator. The receiver will be affected by both verbal and nonverbal cues in formulating an idea of what the other person is trying to say. Because of this, it is important that the communicator be aware of what type of image he or she is presenting to the receiver. In order for effective ... "
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Perception and Decision Making, 2007.
This paper describes the effects of perception on business decisions.
924 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper gives an analysis of how perception plays a vital role in the decision-making process of an organization. It examines the effect of perception, shortcuts to perception and how decisions are actually made. Also explored is the impact of perception on moral and ethical decisions.
From the Paper
"What is perception? Perception is defined as the process by which people organize and interpret their sensory impressions in order to give meaning to the world around them (Robbins, 2005). Perception is basically how each individual views the world around them. What one perceives can be very different from actually reality (Robbins, 2005). The perception of one person will vary greatly from that of another person. Perception can have a huge impact on decision-making and on an organization's behavior in whole."
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"Fahrenheit 451" and Theories of Perception, 2002.
An analysis of the cool medium of Ray Bradbury's science fiction novel in terms of two theories on cause and effect in terms of changes in perception.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 4 sources, $ 55.95
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Abstract
Analysis of the cool medium of Rlay Bradbury's science fiction novel in terms of two theories on cause & effect in terms of changes in perception. Marshall McLuhan's theory of perception altered by technology. David Abram's theory of everday perception as the primary perception. Bradbury's vision. How characters in the novel illustrate the theories. Problem of objective truth.
From the Paper
"One of the key theories of Marshall McLuhan is that technology and the way we relate to and view technology shape our way of thinking about the world. In his discussion of phenomenology, David Abram suggests something similar in that he finds that language shapes how we view the world. Both see a connection between our subjective perception and the objective world we perceive. Both would also agree that our perceptions are neither completely subjective or completely objective. We might think they are subjective, but McLuhan says we are shaped by the technologies we use and by the way those technologies extend our perceptions outside the body. Abram follows the phenomenology of Husserl and Merleau-Ponty and accepts the notion that perception is participation. If this idea is extended to consciousness as such, it could lead to the..."
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Historical Detection, 2006.
An analysis of the application of historical detection to the Salem Witch Trials.
2,350 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper studies historical detection, the use of modern technology and advanced psychological techniques to shed additional light on historical occurrences. Based on the book "After the Fact: the Art of Historical Detection" by J.W. Davidson and M.H. Lytle, the paper applies modern psychology and medicine to the examination of the witchcraft scare in the late seventeenth century in New England.
From the Paper
"Later, social historians studied the everyday activities and commerce of the villagers in the area, using records indicating land ownership and places of residence. They found that at the time, some of the inhabitants of the original Old Town Salem had moved to outlying areas and were setting up another village, incurring the animosities of their neighbors. This explanation is dramatically confirmed when a map is used showing the location of the various persons known to have been involved in the cases: the accusers, the defenders and the accused. It was revealed that those accused of being witches and those who accused them lived on opposite ends of the town. Those who defended the accused lived closest to them, and can be presumed to be friends and neighbors. A study of the politics of the region confirms further that financial interests of the villagers were affected by the efforts of some to move out of the village and begin a settlement of their own. These historians believe that this could explain the intensity of the feelings of animosity that culminated in death for some of the accused witches. In the case of the activities of Salem, a contemporary study of historical documents viewed from a perspective of modern education in the fields of medicine, socio-political dynamics and religious studies has uncovered the answer to a question that has puzzled historians for more than two centuries."
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Visual Perception, 2004.
A discussion of the science and theory behind the phenomenon of visual perception.
1,461 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the concept of visual perception is complex in nature and how a number of different interpretations of the concept have been established throughout the field of psychology. Although the eyes view objects in a series of short, erratic movements, the brain processes these actions efficiently, so that actual visual experiences are smooth and steady. It looks at how, in order to evaluate perception effectively, two distinct schools of thought must be evaluated: modular and interactive; this paper assesses the circumstances surrounding these two experiences and the factors leading up to a conclusion of the most appropriate solution to the perception dilemma.
Outline
Introduction
Review of Related Literature
Movement and Action in the World
Visual Recognition in Relation to Object Processing
Cognitive Psychology and Visual Perception
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Research conducted by Humphreys, Price, and Riddoch in 1999 in the article entitled ?From objects to names: A cognitive neuroscience approach? indicates that the recognition of objects is largely based on a series of processing actions and that object naming is based on a combination of visual processing and recognition tasks. The research designates that ?objects from categories with similar members produce a spread of activation across the structural descriptions of perceptual neighbors, and this slows the time for object decision? (Humphreys, Price, & Riddoch, 1999, p. 120). A number of neuroscientific studies are discussed in this essay, and the primary conclusion that the authors portray is that retrieving an object?s name is dependent upon visual differentiation between categories, and may involve visual processing in earlier stages."
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Risk Perception and Dangers, 2005.
This paper discusses risk perception and assessment using the dangers of lead in children as an example of risk management.
2,310 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that risk perception examines the opinions of people when asked to evaluate hazardous activities, substances and technologies, which helps policy-makers by improving communication between them and the public, by directing educational effort and by predicting public responses to new technologies, events and new risk management strategies. The author points out that the fields that have the most important influence in evaluating risk perception are (1) geography because of the recent broadening of focus on technological hazards, (2) sociology and anthropology because risk perception is influenced by friends, family and co-workers, and (3) psychology because of the use of psycho-physical scaling and multivariate analysis techniques to produce quantitative representations or'cognitive maps' of risk attitudes and perceptions, which demonstrate that every hazard has a unique pattern of qualities related to its perceived risk. The paper states that, for the last 30 years, instead of asking how to prevent lead poisoning, the medical community has taken a risk assessment approach, asking, "How much lead is safe for industry to put into children?"
From the Paper
"The present 'risk balance' situation also does not appear to differentiate between different sorts of risk. For example, a one in 1000 risk imposed on someone is different to a one in 1000 risk accepted by someone. It is often the case that the risk from using a chemical, say, is borne by the population as a whole, whereas the benefits accrue only to a minority. This is inequitable, and a new focus in risk - allowing a product on the market only if it passes a criterion of 'social need' for example, would ensure that inequitable distributions of costs and benefits were reduced."
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Perception and Decision-Making, 2008.
This paper looks at how perception impacts our daily lives; specifically looking at the selecting, organizing and interpreting of sensory inputs in the business environment.
1,050 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the process and the organization of perception as extremely important in any decision-making endeavor. Specifically, the paper looks at the differences in perception on individuals' understanding of reality and how this affects the decision-making process within the business environment where there are numerous variables. In other words, perception takes place when the individual selects, organizes and interprets the various sensory inputs or impressions that he or she encounters. Furthermore, this paper looks at what happens when there are perceptual errors in decision-making within the business sphere.
From the Paper
"However, perceptions may not always be correct. They may be biased or simply based on flawed or false information and data. This is a central issue that the business leader or manager has to be aware of. Therefore, it follows that a fundamental issue in the relationship between perception and business decisions is that clear and accurate perceptions are essential for correct and effective decisions in any business concern.
"While the above statement is the ideal that should be achieved, in reality the issue of perception poses a number of problems for the business manager and for anyone making decisions in the business world. Managers and leader in business have to be aware of the quality of the information that they base their decisions on and in other factors that can negatively affect the perceptions that lead to decision making. For example, the biases and prejudices that may be a part of the perception process have to be 'filtered out' of the decision - making in order for the decisions to be as accurate and effective as possible."
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Conscious Perception and the Central Nervous System, 2008.
A discussion relating to conscious perception and its relationship to the central nervous system.
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
The paper examines whether our conscious perception is an epiphenomenon of the activity of our central nervous system. The paper states that the argument is based on the fact that perception is shaped by cultural factors, meaning that people from two different cultures do not perceive the world in exactly the same way and explains that if conscious perception was not an epiphenomenon of the central nervous system, there would be no significant differences between cultures.
From the Paper
"In order to prove this point it is necessary to look at the nature of perception. Emily A. Schultz and Robert H. Lavenda in Cultural Anthropology define perception as, "The processes by which people organize and experience information that is primarily of sensory origin"(Schultz and Lavenda 1995: 139). What this means is that perception involves two distinct components. The first components are
the sensory organs themselves. The detect stimulus from the environment. However,sensory organs can only detect, they can't process the information. The central nervous system processes the information that the sensory organs have detected."
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Witchcraft, 2002.
A study of different perceptions of witchcraft across cultures.
3,013 words (approx. 12.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how studies of witchcraft accusations usually attribute witch hunts to some form of social change within a society. It looks at how in Europe, colonial New England and contemporary Africa, many studies show how the changing roles of women, political change, and economic change have contributed to the fear of witches. It also looks at how the changing roles of women in society are a main factor in the gendered bias of women being accused as witches.
From the Paper
"In colonial New England, the Puritans new quest for money led to witch-hunts. As the study of Salem village by Boyer and Nissenbaum shows, the division of witchcraft accusations was clearly a result of those who would profit by trade with Salem Town. There was nothing random about the pattern of accusations. A study of the layout of the village shows that those who accused others of witchcraft and the accused resided on opposite sides of the village. As land costs rose and the size of land ownership was falling, Salem village depended more on trade with Salem Town. They were economically and politically dependent on the town. However, some wanted independence from the town while others wished to maintain the ties with the town. As a result of the economic changes in Salem village, an severe outbreak of witchcraft accusations broke out."
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How Visual Perception Occurs, 2004.
An explanatory piece outlining how visual perception occurs within a psychological framework.
1,513 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This essay outlines in a factual, explanatory tone, how 'visual perception' occurs within the body and brain. It is heavily based on scientific terminology as outlined within the psychology syllabus. Includes the function of rods and cones, the interpretation of stimuli, depth cues, Gestalt principles, psychological factors of perception, and a discussion on the fallibility of visual perception. Highly reliable examples are included.
From the Paper
"Visual Sensation, which occurs so we can detect physical stimuli, begins with the reception of information. Light waves (electromagnetic energy) enter the eye and are focused on the retina. This electromagnetic energy is then transduced by rods and cones, (light sensitive cells), into electrochemical energy enabling it to be transmitted to the brain. The electrochemical energy is then transmitted along the neurons of the optic nerve to the Occipital Lobe (Visual Cortex of brain)."
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When Perception Becomes Reality, 2001.
Takes a look at the role of perception in international conflict.
2,151 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 4 sources, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper explains the important role that perception plays in our day-to-day decisions and how states determine courses of action in international society also according to their perceptions. It also describes the relationship between perception and reality in international relations through the examination of case studies and I.R. theory.
From the Paper
"Perception plays an extremely important role in our lives. The decisions we make every day are based on how we perceive the world around us. This is not so different from how states determine their course of action in international society. With only limited knowledge of the capabilities and intents of their neighbors, states must depend heavily on the perceptions they are able to gather. These perceptions however, are not always accurate assessments of the states that they endeavor to describe. Hence, for all intents and purposes, perception eclipses reality as the primary source of intelligence in the international arena. Unfortunately, misinterpretations of a state?s behavior by another state can often lead to brutal conflict. Historically, perception has played a prominent and vital role in conflict between states, however this role is an elusive one to trace."
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