The Construction of Perspectives: Piaget's Alternative to Spatial Egocentrism

This paper explores longstanding inconsistencies in Piaget's account of the development of spatial representation and perspective-taking. It is argued that Piaget effectively develops an "alternative" theoretical position alongside but quite incompatible with the well-known theory of spatial egocentrism. This alternative theory focuses on the general differentiation of perspectives as such. The origins of both accounts are traced in Piaget's early writings, and detailed consideration is given to the findings of the original "three mountains" experiment. The place of both theories in The child's conception of space (Piaget & Inhelder, 1948/1956) is explored. Contemporary theory and research are discussed against this background, and it is concluded that Piaget's alternative theory is both compatible with contemporary thinking and important as a contributory source for future theorisation.