 |
|
Humans do not understand mirror reflections, say researchers
December 22, 2005Psychologists at the University of Liverpool have found that people still find it difficult to understand how mirrors work
Psychologists at the University of Liverpool have found that people still find it difficult to understand how mirrors work.
Dr Marco Bertamini, from the University's School of Psychology, conducted a number of experiments by covering a mirror on a wall and inviting participants to walk along a line parallel to the mirror.
He asked them to guess the point at which they would be able to see their reflection. Results showed that people believe they can see themselves even before they are level with the near edge of the mirror.
Dr Bertamini said: "People tend not to understand that the location of the viewer matters in terms of what is visible in a mirror. A good example of this is what we call the Venus Effect, which relates to the many famous paintings of the goddess Venus, looking in a small mirror.
"If you were to look at these paintings, you would assume that Venus is admiring her own face, because you see her face in the mirror. Your viewpoint, however, is rather different from hers; if you can see her in the mirror then she would see you in the mirror."
Participants were also asked to estimate the image size of their head as it appears on the surface of the mirror. They estimated that it would be a similar size to their physical head. However, participants based their answer on the image they saw inside the mirror rather than on the image on the surface of it. They failed to recognise that the image on the surface of the mirror is half the size of the observer because a mirror is always halfway between the observer and the image that appears inside the mirror.
Dr Bertamini added: "Mirrors make us see virtual objects that exist in a virtual world; they are windows onto this world. On the one hand we trust what we see, but on the other hand this is a world that we know has no physical existence. This is one of the reasons why throughout history people have been fascinated by mirrors.\\\
University of Liverpool
He asked them to guess the point at which they would be able to see their reflection. Results showed that people believe they can see themselves even before they are level with the near edge of the mirror.
Dr Bertamini said: "People tend not to understand that the location of the viewer matters in terms of what is visible in a mirror. A good example of this is what we call the Venus Effect, which relates to the many famous paintings of the goddess Venus, looking in a small mirror.
"If you were to look at these paintings, you would assume that Venus is admiring her own face, because you see her face in the mirror. Your viewpoint, however, is rather different from hers; if you can see her in the mirror then she would see you in the mirror."
Participants were also asked to estimate the image size of their head as it appears on the surface of the mirror. They estimated that it would be a similar size to their physical head. However, participants based their answer on the image they saw inside the mirror rather than on the image on the surface of it. They failed to recognise that the image on the surface of the mirror is half the size of the observer because a mirror is always halfway between the observer and the image that appears inside the mirror.
Dr Bertamini added: "Mirrors make us see virtual objects that exist in a virtual world; they are windows onto this world. On the one hand we trust what we see, but on the other hand this is a world that we know has no physical existence. This is one of the reasons why throughout history people have been fascinated by mirrors.\\\
University of Liverpool
Mirror Current Events and Mirror News RSSNRL sensor provides critical space weather observations
Launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., aboard an United Launch Alliance Atlas V launch vehicle, Oct. 18, 2009, the Special Sensor Ultraviolet Limb Imager (SSULI) developed by NRL's Space Science Division and Spacecraft Engineering Department offers a first of its kind technique for remote sensing of the ionosphere and thermosphere from space.
For gay and straight men, facial attraction operates similarly
A new study from a researcher at Harvard University finds that gay men are most attracted to the most masculine-faced men, while straight men prefer the most feminine-faced women.
Seeing is relieving
An f1000 evaluation examines how pain relief improves greatly when the sufferer can actually see the area where the pain is occurring.
Opening up a colorful cosmic jewel box
Star clusters are among the most visually alluring and astrophysically fascinating objects in the sky. One of the most spectacular nestles deep in the southern skies near the Southern Cross in the constellation of Crux.
Why antidepressants don't work for so many
More than half the people who take antidepressants for depression never get relief.
Alzheimer's lesions found in the retina
The eyes may be the windows to the soul, but new research indicates they also may mirror a brain ravaged by Alzheimer's disease.
Rochester-led Parkinson's study pays off again, 2 decades later
Parkinson disease progresses more slowly in patients who have higher levels of urate, a chemical that at very high level is associated with gout, scientists have found.
MSU research: Small classes have long-term benefit for all students
Providing small classes for at least several consecutive grades starting in early elementary school gives students the best chance to succeed in later grades, according to groundbreaking new research from a Michigan State University scholar.
Rare head and neck cancer linked to HPV, study finds
An increase in cases of a rare type of head and neck cancer appears to be linked to HPV, or human papillomavirus, according to a new study from researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.
World's most sensitive astronomical camera developed at the Universite de Montreal
A team of Université de Montréal researchers, led by physics PhD student Olivier Daigle, has developed the world's most sensitive astronomical camera.
More Mirror Current Events and Mirror News Articles
 |
Jerdon JP7506CF Wall Mirror by Jerdon 5X Wall Mount Mirror - Chrome |
 |
Jerdon JGL9W 5X Magnification Tri-fold Lighted Mirror by Jerdon 5X Tri-fold Mirror |
 |
Jerdon First Class JP910NB 6" 10X Table Top Mirror, Nickel Finish by Jerdon This 6" diameter mirror stands 11" in height and features 10X magnification on one side and non-magnified on the reverse side. Nickel beaded finish. |
 |
Foil Finish Hall Mirror - Silvertone by Target Corporation |
 |
Powell Heirloom Cherry Cheval Mirror G by Powell "Heirloom Cherry" finished reproduction of the cheval mirrors found in homes before the turn of the century. Adjustable full-length mirror tilts to any angle. Some assembly required. |
 |
Jerdon HL745NC 5X Magnification Two Sided Lighted Mirror by Jerdon 5X Two Sided Lighted Mirror |
 |
Oxo Good Grips 1213800 Suction Fogless Mirror by OXO The OXO Good Grips Fogless Mirror features the Stronghold™ Suction Cup which attaches securely to tile, glass and other smooth, non-porous surfaces with the push of a button. An easy-to-access release tab quickly deactivates suction for repositioning or removal. The Mirror is anti-fog for high visibility in steamy conditions and includes a built-in Double Toothbrush/Razor Holder that flexes to accommodate a wide range of handle sizes. |
 |
Jerdon Model's Choice MC315N 3" 15X Travel Folding Mirror, Nickel Finish by Jerdon This 3" mini folding mirror features up close 15X magnification on one side and non-magnified on the reverse side. Folds easily for storage in a purse or drawer. Nickel finish. |
 |
Blomus Square Stainless Steel Mirror by Blomus Do your walls need some spicing up? Does your room need some added light? Mirrors are a great way to liven up any room of your home. They are also a great way to make your room seem larger and more open. With this decorative wall mirror, you will add modern elegance to your bedroom, bathroom, living room or office. The stainless steel frame around this square mirror gives it a retro feel but will look great with just about any kind of decor. Reflect your good taste while reflecting your image in this wall-mounted mirror. . |
 |
Chatham Wall Mirror- Espresso by Elite Home Fashions This furniture arrives mostly assembled. Chatham bath furnishings are an attractive addition to your bath decor. Add style and storage to your bath with these refreshing furnishings! 6605 Features: Material: MDF Finish: Dark Espresso Dimensions: 26"(W) x 0.75"(D) x 19"(H) |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |