Some tactile illusions require active touch (e.g., movement of the fingers or hands), whereas others can be evoked passively (e.g., with external stimuli that press against the skin).
In recent years, a growing interest among perceptual researchers has led to the discovery of new tactile illusions and to the celebration of tactile illusions in the popular science press.
Several tactile illusions are caused by dynamic stimulus sequences that press against the stationary skin surface.
Many illusions in vision are caused by adaptation, the prolonged exposure to a previous stimulus.
Similarly, adaptation can cause such illusions in the sense of touch.