I'm trying to understand the real mechanical difference between the Dwarf's stonecunning trait and the normal perception skill.
PFSRD details for Stonecunning:
Dwarves receive a +2 bonus on Perception checks to potentially notice unusual stonework, such as traps and hidden doors located in stone walls or floors. They receive a check to notice such features whenever they pass within 10 feet of them, whether or not they are actively looking.
PFSRD for Perception:
Perception is also used to notice fine details in the environment. The DC to notice such details varies depending upon distance, the environment, and how noticeable the detail is.
Action: Most Perception checks are reactive, made in response to observable stimulus. Intentionally searching for stimulus is a move action.
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Now, when you compare both of them it sounds like the Stonecunning "auto-check" with perception isn't significantly different from any character simply using Perception to be reactive to stone features in the environment.
It comes across as more of a thematic interpretive element for the GM. A dwarf will absolutely get a perception check under the right conditions, whereas a non-dwarf might get a perception check, or they might need to take a move action to get a perception check. It just comes down to how the GM is looking at the situation.
A non-dwarf would have to say, "I check the wall for hidden doors", whereas when the dwarf passes within 10 feet the DM makes a check and says, "you found a hidden door." Quite a difference.
And, say the dwarf and the non-dwarf say they want to check for hidden doors and they have the same Perception skill. The dwarf ends up with a +2 advantage.
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