The phenomenon of Change Blindness is an interesting function of our blinds in that when we are involved in an activity we gloss over particular changes in the environment, particularly when they are unexpected and all other functions of the context are as expected.
This is demonstrated via an intriguing experiment in which one experimenter is substituted for another in an instant and the subject does not notice the change.
A very good example of this sort of experiment was done at Harvard University.
Change Blindness
Harvard Experiment
Of course, this phenomena has been demonstrated in a number of practical jokes or mentalism gags on television as well.
Change Blindness: Person Swap
Derren Brown
Few have used the principle to such good effect as mentalist Derren Brown with his person swap gags. An excellent compilation of Brown’s gags employing the principle can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYeJ1BHHDIg where he seamlessly switches himself and another person with the member of the public none the wiser. These are brilliant demonstrations of the effect.
Another demonstration of the effect that is loads of fun is the Watch My Dog sequence in the Jackass 3D film.
Change Blindness: Watch My Dog
Jackass 3D
Okay, now that is funny!
Brian
www.BrianDavidPhillips.net
2 comments for “Change Blindness”