Subjective perception and consciousness

Binocular rivalry

Binocular rivalry is an exciting phenomenon that occurs when one eye is presented with one image and the other eye is presented with a completely different image. Conscious perception then switches back and forth between the two images, although there is no physical change in the images itself. Binocular rivalry is often used in consciousness research. In an ongoing project, we are investigating the subjective experience of participants when viewing binocular rivalry.

To experience binocular rivalry, you need a stereoscope. You can see an old stereoscope in this picture from the museum of the Institute of Psychology. You are also very welcome to join us in the lab and experience binocular rivalry yourself!