Simple forms and fluctuations of the line of sight: Implications for motor theories of form processing

Abstract

A contact lens optical Jever was used to measure two-dimensional fixation characteristics when experienced Ss fixated at various positions within simple forms small enough to fall entirely on the foveal floor (<80 min). Fixation stability and the average direction of the line of sight were not markedly or systematically affected by the shape of the fixation stimulus. Similar results were obtained when all saccades were suppressed and the line of sight maintained exclusively by means of slow control. These results cast doubt on motor theories of form perception. © 1974 Psychonomic Society, Inc.