Is it, or not?

Upon first viewing an optical illusion, one infers their own personal bias in order to arrive at an acceptable interpretation.

No doubt many, if not all of us have seen the old/young lady in the picture to the left. But is she, (old or young) really there.

Having seen the image before, surely one only has to glance at the image to quickly recognize it for what it is.....but look closer, Is it what you first thought?

We, that have seen the image before knew it immediately, but we were wrong. Those having never seen the image before, may at this point still be wondering where the "illusion" is.

Look at the next picture.

Is the "old hag" or "young woman" pictured here?

Look closely for the image of either or both. In the first picture one can probably find a "young woman", and in the second possibly see the "old hag".

Now look at the image below, and consider that the "old hag" is looking down and to the left.

Do you see her?

Look again.

Do you see the "young lady" facing left, and looking over her right shoulder, away from the viewer?

She is there.

They both are there.

But not so much in the first or second pictures above.

So, do we see what we think we see? Or, do we see what we are expecting to see, based on previous experiences? This image has been used many times to explain the optical illusion phenomena. But have you ever considered that maybe it can also explain more?

In many cases, only after having an optical illusion explained, can the viewer re-evaluate the illusion and discern the existence of a totally different image. My personal biases were no less at play in preparing for the "Evaluation of a Course Syllabus" assignment, than would they have been viewing an optical illusion for the first time.

In this program I must admit, I placed the respective syllabus in its respective 3-ring binder to use as calendars of events. However, after completing the reading for this assignment, and comparing the syllabus for this course to the requirements set forth, my eyes have been opened to the true purpose(s) and value of the syllabus.

The illusion has now been explained to this viewer, and his eyes can now see the true picture.