1910-
Experimental psychologist noted for her work in the field of perceptual development in children and infants.

Gibson was born Eleanor Jack in Peoria, Illinois, into a successful Presbyterian family on December 7,1910. Her parents were William A. and Isabel (Grier) Jack. She married fellow psychologist James J. Gibson on September 17, 1932. They had two children, James J. and Jean Grier.

Due to prevailing attitudes discouraging females— even gifted ones—from pursuing an education, young Eleanor was careful not to demonstrate her scholarly capabilities while at school. However, once ensconced in the nurturing atmosphere of Smith College, at Cornell University, where she completed her undergraduate degree in 1931, (and in 1933 her D.Sc.), she excelled in scientific subjects and chose to study psychology, no doubt encouraged by such eminent teachers as