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MA Thesis Defense: Raley Zurcher
May 24, 2023 @ 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
‘Color as form: segmentation as the primary role of color vision‘
Raley Zurcher (Cal State Long Beach)
24 May 2023 • 11:00am–1:00pm • MHB–915
Abstract: This thesis examines the role of color vision in perceiver navigation and offers a positive argument for the conclusion that color vision is a segmentation tool for seeing objects rather than (instances of) the property color. In investigating color and vision, I focus on the primary question: what account of color vision gives the most holistic explanation for the phenomenon of color constancy? Drawing on both empirical and philosophical research, I argue that the phenomenon of color constancy is best explained by the theory that color vision’s primary origin and function is that of a segmentation tool, used as a supplement to the luminant system. In other words, this aspect of our visual system does not pick up on properties called ‘color’ but instead detects stable contrasts that enable us to successfully segment our environment.
Oral defenses are open to the public.
For a draft copy of the thesis in advance, please contact Raley <raley.zurcher01@student.csulb.edu> directly.