In the perception of a tree we can distinguish the act of experiencing, or perceiving, from the thing experienced, or perceived.
Samuel AlexanderThe mental act of sensation which issues in reflex movement is so simple as to defy analysis.
Samuel AlexanderThe interval between a cold expectation and a warm desire may be filled by expectations of varying degrees of warmth or by desires of varying degrees of coldness.
Samuel AlexanderDesire then is the invasion of the whole self by the wish, which, as it invades, sets going more and more of the psychical processes; but at the same time, so long as it remains desire, does not succeed in getting possession of the self.
Samuel Alexander