Visual Response to Valued Objects (12-29-08)
The sections of the human brain that process visual information respond more strongly to objects of value than other objects.
The sections of the human brain that process visual information respond more strongly to objects of value than other objects.
Zoos provide humans with an opportunity to reflect on our humanness and the responsibilities we have as a result.
Viewing videos of spaces and experiencing environments via virtual reality can influence us, just as actually being in a space does.
Two recent articles increase understanding of how biological sensitivity to our physical environments influences us psychologically.
The American Psychological Association held their 116th annual convention in Boston from August 14 to 17. Several of the papers presented related to place design.
Reminders of money, even if they are very subtle, influence human behavior. So can physical factors that make us likely to follow the behavioral norms of a space.
We search through physical spaces and our own minds using the same methods.
Does having a mobile phone make us safer? Does a cell phone lead us to behave in a safer way?
Two recent sources review research that details how natural forms and images can enhance human functioning and reduce stress, and make appeals for architecture informed by that research.
In 1990, Stokols presented two frameworks that can be used to discuss how human beings interact with the environments that surround them. These descriptions of instrumental and spiritual approaches remain useful today.