The neuropsychology of object constancy

Abstract

There have been several proposals for the mechanism by which we are able to recognize an object across a number of viewpoints. Viewpoint-dependent accounts suggest that recognition may be based on an incremental transformation (e.g., mental rotation) strategy, while a variety of viewpoint-independent mechanisms for object recognition have also been proposed. Recent research in neurobiology, based on the two cortical visual systems account, suggest that the processes of viewpoint-dependent and viewpoint-independent object recognition may rely on separate anatomical regions, and that brain lesions may leave patients with selective access to particular types of representation. Evidence from a variety of neuropsychological disorders are reviewed to support the position that viewpoint-independent object recognition depends upon the integrity of occipitotemporal structures. In addition, it is suggested that viewpoint-dependent processes (perhaps depending on occipitoparietal structures) may supplement this primary system under nonoptimal circumstances.