ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with the concept of system, proceed to the qualifier intentional, and end with the qualifier epistemic. In abstract terms, a beginning student of perception has embarked on the study of epistemic, intentional systems. The focus is in respect to the function of perception more than its content. Perception’s universal function is to coordinate the individual organism with its surroundings. The word system, like many of the important words in the study of perception and action, is vague. Perceptions are about objects and events, and actions are about goals. The qualifier epistemic simply brings into emphasis one particular intentional property: knowing about. What is perhaps most tantalizing about the systems of interest to the student of perception and action is the very obvious fact that they are knowledgeable. Complex systems—for example, the multiple living things that exhibit perception and action—represent the general case.
