Apperception

n.

1.

(Metaph.) The mind's perception of itself as the subject or actor in its own states; perception that reflects upon itself; sometimes, intensified or energetic perception. This feeling has been called by philosophers the apperception or consciousness of our own existence. - Sir W. Hamilton.

Noun

1.

apperception - the process whereby perceived qualities of an object are related to past experience

apperceive, basic cognitive process