Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 24, 2026

Perceptual and Category Processing of the Uncanny Valley Hypothesis' Dimension of Human Likeness: Some Methodological Issues
Published on: June 3, 2013
Inappropriate constancy scaling theory and the Mueller-Lyer illusion
Abstract:
Gregory's Inappropriate Constancy Scaling explanation for visual illusion was investigated. If perceptual experience with real-life edges and angles, near and far, leads to constancy scaling which is inappropriately applied to the Mueller-Lyer configuration, then configurations which are based upon angles of regard in between the two extreme field patterns would produce illusory effects between the two conventional Mueller-Lyer effects. A model representing one edge of a cubic figure, i.e., one vertical and four horizontal lines, was constructed of wooden dowel rods and photographed at predetermined angles. Transparencies based on the photographed images were then used to determine the PSE at each of these angles. Generally, we interpret out results as supportive of the theory, since PSEs increase as a function of angular change from 0 degrees to 180 degrees. The linear trend is complicated by an unexpected cubic trend, but an explanation is proposed.
Related Concept Videos
Cause and Effect
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Scaling
Gestalt Principles of Perception
Perceptual Constancy
Size constancy is the recognition that an object remains the same size, even when its image on the retina changes. For instance, a bus is perceived to be large enough to carry people, even if it looks tiny from...
Causes of Similarity-Dissimilarity Effect

