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A
window frame in the shape of a trapezoid rotates on a pedestal.
By watching it from a distance, it appears to swing back and
forth in alternating rotations of 180Ü, rather than continually
spinning a full 360Ü. This occurs because we are, in our civilization,
surrounded by rectangular structures; hence when we are presented
with a rotating trapezoidal object which has all the usual
features of a common rectangular object, we are strongly inclined
to see the smaller end as being further away. It is easier
to believe that the rotation is reversing than to believe
that the smaller end is actually getting closer.
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