The phi phenomenon is an apparent motion perceived when two nearby visual stimuli are presented in alternation at a sufficiently high frequency, so that instead of two separate objects flashing on and off, a viewer perceives a single object moving between the two positions. First described by the psychologist Max Wertheimer in 1912, the phenomenon became a foundational demonstration for Gestalt psychology, the study of how the mind perceives organized wholes rather than only their individual parts.
Facts
Core ClaimThe phi phenomenon is an apparent motion perceived when two nearby visual stimuli are presented in alternation at a relatively high frequency. 1 First Described Year Classification
Type of Phenomenon Connections
Associated With
Wertheimer's description of the phi phenomenon, apparent motion from alternating still images, is considered the founding observation of Gestalt psychology.
In Branch
Sources
1. Phi phenomenon, Wikipedia
opening definition paragraph
The term phi phenomenon is used in a narrow sense for an apparent motion that is observed if two nearby optical stimuli are presented in alternation with a relatively high frequency.
History section
Max Wertheimer first described this form of apparent movement in his habilitation thesis, published 1912, marking the birth of Gestalt psychology.
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