In simpler terms, bottom-up processing is when our environment (stimuli) influences our thinking.
Bottom-Up Processing vs. Top-Down Processing
How exactly do we process perceptual information from the world around us?
There are two basic approaches to understanding how this sensation and perception take place.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
One of these is known as bottom-up processing and the other is top-down processing.
Information is carried in one direction, starting with the retina and proceeding to the visual cortex.
Unlike top-down processing, bottom-up processing is purely data-driven and requires no previous knowledge or learning.
Bottom-up processing takes place as it happens.
Bottom-up processing works like this:
This approach to understanding perception is an example ofreductionism.
As one example, imagine that you see a somewhat obscure shape.
In this case, we use top-down processing to interpret the visual information in light of surrounding visual cues.
Is Reading an Example of Bottom-Up Processing?
If we used only bottom-up processing, these ink blobs would continue to look like random shapes on paper.
The experience of visual illusions can illustrate how bottom-up and top-down processes influence how we experience the world.
This demonstrates how important both processes are in shaping our perceptual experiences.
Bottom Line
Bottom-up processing can be extremely useful for understanding certain elements of how perception occurs.
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