The Western News

Optical Illusions Often Cause of Superstitions

Many dangerous ancient superstitions in regard to miracles, witchcraft, "spells" and the like were based on now easily explained phenomena of vision. After vision, which is the common name for the lingering of visual images, is usually the result of tired, overworked color nerves of the eye. This eye-fag alters the true appearance of real objects and also causes persons to see imaginary figures and hues.

Everyone has at some time or other experienced "after vision." Look steadily at a spot of black ink on a white paper for about 30 seconds and then quickly look up at a white or light-colored wall; the area will seem to be dark gray with a white patch on it. This is because the nerve centers previously rested by the black have become excited by the change in color. In the same way, after staring at a red, bright patch, the eye focused on a white object will see a blue-green color.

Strained eyes can well be called "Public Enemy Number One" of the nervous system. In the same way that society provides for the correction of juvenile delinquents, modern individuals should and are learning to correct visual defects and protect their eyes from strain by rest, continual care and the sensible use of proper glasses.