Final answer:
The principle that every stimulus pattern is seen in a way that the resulting structure is as simple as possible is the Gestalt principle of simplicity or the law of pragnanz. This is part of Gestalt psychology which deals with our perception of patterns and objects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle that states every stimulus pattern is seen in such a way that the resulting structure is as simple as possible is known as the Gestalt principle of simplicity or the law of pragnanz. This principle is part of the Gestalt psychology which aims to understand the laws behind the ability to acquire and maintain meaningful perceptions in an apparently chaotic world. When we observe a stimulus, the principle suggests we will perceive it in the most straightforward and coherent form. For example, when we look at a complex pattern, we tend to organize it into a simpler, recognizable form rather than seeing it as a series of disjointed elements. This principle, like others from Gestalt theory, such as proximity, continuity, and closure, informs us about how elements of visual perception are organized by our minds to form a coherent image. These Gestalt principles are essential in understanding how we interpret visual information and are often applied in various fields, including design and psychology.