Psychology

Rapid and dynamic processing of face pareidolia in the human brain

S. G. Wardle, J. Taubert, et al.

Discover the fascinating realm of face pareidolia, where our brain's face processing capabilities lead us to perceive faces in inanimate objects! In a cutting-edge study conducted by Susan G. Wardle, Jessica Taubert, Lina Teichmann, and Chris I. Baker, advanced fMRI and MEG neuroimaging reveal how illusory faces are initially processed like real faces but shift rapidly to resemble ordinary objects. Join us on this intriguing exploration of human cognition!

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Abstract

The human brain is highly specialized for face processing, yet we sometimes perceive illusory faces in inanimate objects (face pareidolia). This study investigated whether this phenomenon arises from rapid feature-based processing or slower cognitive reinterpretation. Using fMRI and MEG neuroimaging, along with model-based analysis, the researchers found that illusory face representation is confined to occipital-temporal face-selective visual cortex. Initially, illusory faces are represented similarly to real faces, but within ~250 ms, this representation shifts, becoming indistinguishable from ordinary objects. This suggests an initial recruitment of a broadly tuned face detection mechanism prioritizing sensitivity over selectivity.

Publisher

Nature Communications

Published On

Sep 09, 2020

Authors

Susan G. Wardle, Jessica Taubert, Lina Teichmann, Chris I. Baker