The stereo vision system derives a 3D representation of the visual world from a pair of 2D representations of retinal images. For this well-defined computational task, stereo vision serves as a model system for investigations of the neural mechanisms of visual perception. Computational ideas merge with neurophysiological data of single neuron responses in the monkey visual cortex. Area V1 performs initial filter-like processing, but this alone is not sufficient for all aspects of stereo vision. Several higher visual areas play important roles. Recent findings suggest that areas along the dorsal and ventral pathways have complementary functions in stereopsis.
