From primal templates to invariant recognition

Abstract

We can immediately recognize novel objects seen only once before -- in different positions on the retina and at different scales (distances). Is this ability hardwired by our genes or learned during development -- and if so how? We present a computational proof that developmental learning of invariance in recognition is possible and can emerge rapidly. This computational work sets the stage for experiments on the development of object invariance while suggesting a specific mechanism that may be critically tested.