Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Principle of Proximity suggests that objects near each other tend to be grouped together.
Related terms
Principle of Good Figure (also known as Prรคgnanz): This principle asserts that our minds will prefer interpretations of images that are simple, clear and orderly over complex ones.
Principle of Symmetry: According to this principle, symmetrical images are perceived collectively even in spite of distance. It's like looking at a butterfly; its two wings may be apart but they're seen as one unit because they're symmetrical.
Law Of Common Fate (a sub-principle under Gestalt principles): This principle states that objects moving in the same direction or at the same speed are perceived as a group. For example, a flock of birds flying together is seen as one unit.