> "if a tree falls in the forest and there is no one around,
> does it still make a sound?"
This question provides a great opening to get students to think about
the nature of perception. The answer depends on whether you identify sound
as the physical vibrations or the psychological experience. A slightly
more provoking question may be: Does a dog whistle make a sound? Some
would say it clearly does, but others would argue that humans can't hear
it, so it doesn't. There may not be a correct answer, but it makes for a
fun discussion.
Enjoying playing in the muddy water,
Jeff
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| Jeffrey J. Sable 492 Bluemont | |
| Behavioral Neuroscience/Physiological Psychology 1100 Mid-Campus Dr. | |
| Department of Psychology Manhattan KS 66506 | |
| Kansas State University (785)532-6850 (msg.) | |
| http://www-personal.ksu.edu/~jsable (785)532-5401 (fax) |/
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