Final answer:
The statement that the rule of proximity implies we tend to perceive smooth paths when looking at a series of points is false; the correct Gestalt principle for this perception is the law of continuity or good continuation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rule of proximity, also known as the Gestalt principle of proximity, suggests that elements that are close to each other tend to be perceived as a group. This is demonstrated in Figure 5.26 where (a) shows a block of dots perceived as one group and (b) shows dots arranged in such a way that they are perceived as three columns. Such organization of sensory stimuli into meaningful perception is a key aspect of Gestalt psychology, a theory which focuses primarily on how we interpret the world around us.
The similar-sounding phrase that we tend to perceive smooth paths when looking at a series of points is actually not the principle of proximity but rather the principle of good continuation or the law of continuity. This Gestalt principle states that elements arranged on a line or curve are perceived to be more related than elements not on the line or curve, leading to our perception of a smooth, continuous path. Therefore, the initial statement provided in the question is false. Overall, understanding these principles can help explain how we perceive patterns and organize visual information, which can be particularly helpful in various fields, including design, art, and psychology itself.