Helmholtz's theory of unconscious inference

Helmholtz's theory of unconscious inference suggests that our perceptions are not just direct reflections of the world but are shaped by unconscious mental processes. When we see an object, our brain uses past experiences and knowledge to make educated guesses about what we perceive. This happens so quickly and automatically that we aren't aware of it. For example, when viewing a blurry image, our brain fills in the gaps based on what we know, helping us recognize shapes and forms, even when the information is incomplete or ambiguous. This theory emphasizes the active role of the mind in interpreting sensory information.