The Eye The Physiology of Human Perception

The Eye The Physiology of Human Perception The scientifi c study of the eye is believed to have originated with the Greek physician Herophilus, who lived from about 335 to 280 BCE. Indeed, from his work came the words that we use today to describe the various parts of the eye, including the words retina and cornea. In Herophilus’ day, scientists believed that we could see because beams of light came out of our eyes and fi xed on objects. In the centuries since, doctors and anatomists have discovered that vision relies on just the opposite effect. Human eyes are actually light collectors. Light rays travel from objects around us and stimulate the lightsensitive cells in our eyes. This book takes a look at these amazing organs and how they function to allow us to see the world.