Do Humans Prefer Curved Things?

Introduction

The preference for curved shapes over angular ones is a well-documented phenomenon in the field of visual aesthetics. This preference has been observed across different cultures and contexts, suggesting a potentially universal human inclination towards curvature. Researchers have explored various aspects of this preference, including its underlying causes, its manifestation in different settings, and the factors that may influence it.

Key Insights

Universal Preference for Curved Shapes:
- Studies show that people from diverse cultural backgrounds, including Western and non-Western societies, consistently prefer curved over angular shapes .
- This preference is observed in both real objects and abstract designs, indicating a broad application of the curvature effect.
Curvature and Visual Pleasantness:
- Curved shapes are generally perceived as more pleasant and visually appealing compared to angular shapes .
- The preference for curvature is not solely due to a dislike of angularity; curved shapes are inherently more liked .
Biological and Evolutionary Basis:
- Some researchers suggest that the preference for curved shapes may have a biological or evolutionary basis, potentially linked to perceptions of safety and non-threat .
- However, this hypothesis is not fully supported, as the preference for curvature persists even when angular shapes are not perceived as threatening .
Influence of Individual Differences:
- Individual differences, such as art expertise and openness to experience, can moderate the preference for curvature .
- People with higher sensitivity to visual aesthetics or those with artistic training may exhibit stronger preferences for curved shapes .
Dynamic Nature of Aesthetic Preferences:
- Preferences for curved shapes can change over time, influenced by cultural trends and fashion.
- Despite these dynamic changes, the general preference for curvature remains a consistent trend.

Conclusion

The research consistently shows that humans have a strong preference for curved shapes over angular ones. This preference is observed across different cultures and contexts, suggesting a universal inclination towards curvature. While the exact reasons for this preference are still debated, it is clear that curved shapes are generally perceived as more pleasant and visually appealing. Individual differences and cultural trends can influence this preference, but the overall tendency to favor curvature remains stable.

Summary

Consensus Meter

Introduction

Key Insights

Conclusion

Sources and full results

Preference for curved contours across cultures.

Do observers like curvature or do they dislike angularity?

Humans Prefer to See and Imagine Drawing Curved Objects

Do People Prefer Curved Objects? Angularity, Expertise, and Aesthetic Preference

The cycle of preference: long-term dynamics of aesthetic appreciation.

Visual preference for abstract curvature and for interior spaces: Beyond undergraduate student samples.

Humans Prefer Curved Visual Objects

Aesthetic sensitivity to curvature in real objects and abstract designs.

Comparing Angular and Curved Shapes in Terms of Implicit Associations and Approach/Avoidance Responses

The Curvature Effect

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