Four-dimensional spatial reasoning in humans

Author
Publication Year
2008

Type

Journal Article
Abstract
Human subjects practiced navigation in a virtual, computer-generated maze that contained 4 spatial dimensions rather than the usual 3. The subjects were able to learn the spatial geometry of the 4-dimensional maze as measured by their ability to perform path integration, a standard test of spatial ability. They were able to travel down a winding corridor to its end and then point back accurately toward the occluded origin. One interpretation is that the brain substrate for spatial navigation is not a built-in map of the 3-dimensional world. Instead it may be better described as a set of general rules for manipulating spatial information that can be applied with practice to a diversity of spatial frameworks.
Journal
Journal of Experimental Psychology, Human Perception and Performance
Volume
34
Issue
5
Pages
1066-1077
ISSN Number
0096-1523
Alternate Journal
J Exp Psychol Hum Percept Perform
PMID
18823195
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