"When Lightning Strikes" (by Neisser and Hirst)

"When Lightning Strikes" by Neisser and Hirst explores how people recognize and respond to sudden, powerful events—like lightning. The study examines whether individuals can quickly detect and interpret such stimuli based on their expectations and experiences. Essentially, it investigates the mental processes involved in real-time perception, emphasizing that recognition is influenced by prior knowledge and context. The research helps us understand how the brain efficiently processes unexpected or intense inputs, enabling us to react promptly to potentially dangerous situations.