Which term refers to the concept that people organize their perceptions into coherent wholes?

The term that refers to the concept that people organize their perceptions into coherent wholes is Gestalt. This term comes from a psychological theory that emphasizes the idea that the mind perceives objects not by analyzing their individual components, but rather by viewing them as entire forms or organized patterns. This principle is often summarized by the phrase "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts."

In the context of perception, Gestalt psychology posits that human beings naturally seek to organize their sensory experiences in a way that creates meaningful shapes, patterns, and forms, allowing us to understand complex images or situations more intuitively. This understanding is fundamental in various fields such as psychology, art, and design, as it highlights how our perception is influenced by innate tendencies to group and simplify our experiences.