5 - Selective Influence and Classificatory Separability (Perceptual Separability) in Perception and Cognition: Similarities, Distinctions, and Synthesis

Abstract

The question of whether and how two or more dimensions, features, or other psychological objects interact precedes the origins of scientific psychology. Using experimental factors to uncover vital aspects of psychological systems is perhaps not quite so hoary, but can be traced to at least the late 19th century. Two essential, but apparently distinct, avenues these take are, for item one, perceptual separability and, for item two, selective influence. This study examines their individual mathematical and logical foundations as well as their separate goals, philosophical underpinnings, and experimental applications. It is determined that deep structural correspondences exist between them, but that there are also profound distinctions, particularly in their respective goals and usages.