Sensorimotor brain dynamics reflect architectural affordances

Abstract

Anticipating meaningful actions in the environment is an essential function of the brain. Such predictive mechanisms originate from the motor system and allow for inferring actions from environmental affordances, and the potential to act within a specific environment. Using architecture, we provide a unique perspective on the ongoing debate in cognitive neuroscience and philosophy on whether cognition depends on movement or is decoupled from our physical structure. To investigate cognitive processes associated with architectural affordances, we used a mobile brain/body imaging approach recording brain activity synchronized to head-mounted displays. Participants perceived and acted on virtual transitions ranging from nonpassable to easily passable. We found that early sensory brain activity, on revealing the environment and before actual movement, differed as a function of affordances. In addition, movement through transitions was preceded by a motor-related negative component that also depended on affordances. Our results suggest that potential actions afforded by an environment influence perception.

Neuroscience for architecture: The evolving science of perceptual meaning

“…These results suggest, in accord with the concept of affordance, that participants saw the door differently, depending on its affordance and on the broader context of action. In other words, results of Djebbara et al (8) support the view that the world of perception is shaped by the possibilities of imminent action.…”

“…Against this background of uncertainty and cautious optimism, the new study of architectural affordances by Djebbara et al 8is interesting not only because of its scientific merits but also because of the choice of theory and vocabulary it brings with it. Djebbara et al (8) had human participants walking freely while immersed in a virtual environment.…”

“…Djebbara et al (8) interpret their results accordingly, suggesting that "potential actions afforded by an environment influence perception." The authors also evaluate the participants' subjective state using a self-assessment manikin questionnaire.…”

Perfect Timing: Mobile Brain/Body Imaging scaffolds the 4E-cognition research program (published version)

“…as well as in virtual, modified, and/or extended laboratory settings has been -in many cases-successful (e.g. Djebbara et al, 2019;.…”

“…as well as in virtual, modified, and/or extended laboratory settings has been -in many cases-successful (e.g. Djebbara et al, 2019;. Nevertheless, even if the technical/analytical gap is breached, novel hypotheses, measures, and experimental paradigms are needed in order to tackle MoBI's ultimate goal: to model and understand cognition, behavior, and experience as it emerges and unfolds unto and from the world .…”