This book investigates the cognitive processes underlying human face recognition and the computational approaches to replicating these abilities in machines. Bruce, a prominent researcher in the field, draws upon her extensive work in experimental psychology and computational modeling to present a comprehensive overview of how humans perceive, remember, and identify faces. The book examines the critical features and contextual information humans utilize, and explores the challenges and successes in developing artificial systems that can perform similar tasks, considering factors like lighting, pose, and expression.

The book is recognized as a foundational text in the interdisciplinary study of face processing, bridging cognitive psychology and computer vision. It is noted for its rigorous experimental approach and its clear articulation of the computational challenges involved in replicating human-like face recognition. The work is considered essential for researchers and students seeking to understand both the biological and artificial mechanisms of how we see and identify faces.