Perception vs Cognition: Understanding the Differences and How They Affect Our Daily Lives

It is often said that perception is reality. However, is that really the case? Perception and cognition are two closely related yet distinct concepts that can significantly impact our daily lives. In this article, we will explore these differences, how they influence our behaviors, and ways to develop a more accurate understanding of reality.

What is Perception?

Perception can be defined as the way we interpret sensory information to form our understanding of the world. It involves our senses of touch, sight, smell, taste, and hearing. Our perception of the world around us relies on past experiences, individual biases, and social context.

For instance, if you are nearsighted and put your glasses on for the first time, you may be surprised at how sharp and detailed the world looks. In contrast, someone with perfect vision may not notice the difference. Perception is subjective and different for everyone.

What is Cognition?

Cognition, on the other hand, refers to the mental processes used to gain knowledge and understanding. It involves attention, memory, language, perception, decision-making, and problem-solving. Cognition allows us to process and interpret information, apply our previous knowledge, and adapt to new situations.

For example, if you are reading this article, your cognition is working to understand the words on the screen, make sense of them, and retain the information for future reference. Cognition is essential for learning, understanding, and decision-making.

How Do Perception and Cognition Affect Our Daily Lives?

Our perception and cognition can significantly influence how we approach situations and make decisions in our daily lives. Our perceptions, based on past experiences, can influence our expectations and lead to misunderstandings and biases.

For instance, if you were scammed in the past, you may be less likely to trust new people or opportunities, even if they are legitimate. Similarly, cognitive biases can hamper our decision-making and lead to poor choices.

However, becoming aware of our perceptions and cognitive biases can help overcome them. Being mindful of these influences and seeking out new information can provide a more accurate understanding of reality.

Developing a More Accurate Understanding of Reality

There are several ways to combat the influence of perception and cognitive biases. One way is to seek out new experiences and information to challenge our perception. This can include exposing ourselves to new cultures, trying new foods, or learning new skills.

Additionally, we can practice mindfulness and self-reflection to become more aware of our biases and how they may be influencing our perceptions. This can help us make more informed decisions and approach situations with a more open mind.

Conclusion

Perception and cognition play a significant role in our daily lives, influencing how we interpret the world and make decisions. While our perceptions are fallible and subjective, cognitive bias can further distort our understanding of reality. However, by seeking out new experiences, practicing mindfulness, and being aware of our biases, we can develop a more accurate understanding of the world and make better decisions.