Exteroception

Exteroception is the process by which humans and animals perceive the outside world. This perception is facilitated by sensory systems that detect external stimuli, such as sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. The term "exteroception" is derived from the Latin words "externus," meaning "outside," and "capere," meaning "to take."

Overview

Exteroception is one of the three main types of perception, the other two being interoception, which involves the perception of internal bodily sensations, and proprioception, which involves the perception of body position and movement. Exteroceptive senses are primarily responsible for our perception of the external environment and play a crucial role in our interaction with the world around us.

Exteroceptive Senses

Sight

Sight is the ability to perceive light and distinguish colors and shapes. It is facilitated by the eye, which contains photoreceptor cells that convert light into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve.

Hearing

Hearing is the ability to perceive sound. It is facilitated by the ear, which captures sound waves and converts them into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the brain via the auditory nerve.

Touch

Touch is the ability to perceive pressure, temperature, and pain. It is facilitated by the skin, which contains various types of sensory receptors that respond to different types of stimuli.

Taste

Taste is the ability to perceive different flavors. It is facilitated by the tongue, which contains taste buds that respond to different types of chemical compounds.

Smell

Smell is the ability to perceive different odors. It is facilitated by the nose, which contains olfactory receptors that respond to different types of chemical compounds.

Role in Human Behavior

Exteroception plays a crucial role in human behavior. It allows us to navigate our environment, avoid danger, seek out food and other resources, and engage in social interactions. It also plays a role in our emotional responses to the world around us.

See Also

• Perception
• Sensory system
• Interoception
• Proprioception

References

Exteroception Resources
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