Purposive Reconstruction: A Reply to "A Computational and Evolutionary Perspective on the Role of Representation in Vision" by M. J. Tarr and M. J. Black

In Tarr and Black′s paper it is stated that computer vision research should be based on reconstruction, as it offers the most promising framework for achieving insight into human visual cognition. It is further stated that it is in agreement with evolution. The competing school, the purposive, is considered too specific and relevant mainly for construction of robotic related systems with a limited functionality. In this paper it is argued that the two schools should not be viewed as competing, but rather as complementary. The reconstruction approach is used for research in vision functionalities, which may be combined into operational systems through a purposive analysis from a global point of view. Such a combined approach to vision is necessary for addressing critical issues such as continuous operation and achievement of specific visual tasks, while maintaining the generality needed to obtain insight into visual cognition.