Intrinsic multiperspectivity. Conceptual forms and the functional architecture of the perceptual system,” in Interdisciplinary Anthropology: Continuing Evolution of Man, eds

Abstract It is a characteristic feature of our mental make-up that the same percep-tual input situation can simultaneously elicit conflicting mental perspectives. This ability pervades our perceptual and cognitive domains. Striking examples are the dual character of pictures in picture perception, pretend play, or the ability to employ metaphors and allegories. I argue that traditional approaches, beyond being inadequate on principle grounds, are theoretically ill equipped to deal with these achievements. I then outline a theoretical perspective that has emerged from a theoretical convergence of perceptual psychology, ethology, linguistics, and devel-opmental research. On the basis of this framework, I argue that corresponding achievements are brought forth by a specific type of functional architecture whose core features are as follows: (1) a perceptual system that is biologically furnished with a rich system of conceptual forms, (2) a triggering relation between the sensory input and conceptual forms by which the same sensory input can be exploited by different types or systems of conceptual forms, and (3) computational principles for handling semantically underspecified conceptual forms. Characteristic features of the proposed theoretical framework are pointed out using the Heider–Simmel phenomenon as an example. 1 Multiperspectivity The phenomenon in question can be vivaciously illustrated by a self-portrait of the French painter and caricaturist Alfred Le Petit, as depicted in Fig. 1. This painting visualises multiperspectivity in the literal sense of providing, within a single integral situation, multiple views of the same object as seen from different vantage points. At the same time, it allegorically illustrates a much more abstract feature This chapter draws on material published in Mausfeld (2010a, b)