An Evolutionary Approach to Perception
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sensory systems (like the auditory system)
evolved to provide biologically useful information
about the world
E.g. taste:
| sweet |
--> |
carbohydrates |
| sour |
--> |
nature's expiry date |
| bitter |
--> |
toxins |
| salty |
--> |
meat/protein |
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pregnancy sickness: an example of how evolution
shapes stimulus preferences (Profet, 1992)
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A potentially productive way to look at "timbre" is
to consider some of the properties of sounds
that help humans solve basic evolutionary
problems such as seeking food and shelter,
avoiding danger, establishing friendships or alliances,
pursuing sexual relationships, and raising offspring.