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endorphin

n. any of a class of neuropeptides, found mainly in the pituitary gland, that function as endogenous opioids. The best known is beta-endorphin; the others are alpha-endorphin and gamma-endorphin. The production of endorphins during intense physical activity is one explanation for the runner’s high or exercise high, as well as for an athlete’s ability to feel little or no pain during a competition.

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Psychology term of the day

March 16th 2025

Hering theory of color vision

Hering theory of color vision

a theory of color vision postulating that there are three sets of receptors, one of which is sensitive to white and black, another to red and green, and the third to yellow and blue. The breaking down (catabolism) of these substances is supposed to yield one member of these pairs (white, red, or yellow), while the building up (anabolism) of the same substances yields the other (black, green, or blue). Color blindness results from the absence of one or more of the chromatic processes. See opponent process theory of color vision. [proposed in 1875 by Ewald Hering]