The coupling of binocular depth perception to the perception of size.

by Jack Schwartz

Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. New York University

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The anaglyph seen below demonstrates that binocular depth perception and perception of size are coupled in the visual system. The two identical ovals in the figure appear to have distinctly different sizes when viewed anaglyphically. Whichever oval is seen in the foreground appears smaller. If the anaglyphic glasses are reversed the size and depth perceptions reverse together. Shutting either eye to disrupt the perception of depth also disrupts the size-difference perception, and makes it clear that the ovals are of the same size.