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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 11, 2026

Methods to Explore the Influence of Top-down Visual Processes on Motor Behavior

Methods to Explore the Influence of Top-down Visual Processes on Motor Behavior

Published on: April 16, 2014

Evolved navigation theory and the plateau illusion.

Russell E Jackson¹, Chéla R Willey

¹Psychology and Communications Department, University of Idaho, MS 3043 Moscow, ID 83844-3043, USA. rjackson@uidaho.edu

|May 16, 2013

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

The plateau illusion reveals that distances toward a steep slope appear longer than those extending away. This finding challenges common perceptions and suggests an evolutionary basis for navigation.

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Area of Science:

Psychology
Perception
Evolutionary Psychology

Background:

Anecdotal evidence suggests perceived distances differ based on direction relative to slopes.
This phenomenon, common in daily navigation, has been largely uninvestigated.
Existing theories did not fully explain this directional perception bias.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the directional perception of distances relative to slopes.
To test competing predictions regarding distance perception.
To identify and name the "plateau illusion."

Main Methods:

Two experiments were conducted to measure perceived distances.
Participants navigated simulated or real-world slopes.
Data were analyzed to compare perceived distances extending toward versus away from slope edges.

Main Results:

Contrary to anecdotal beliefs, observers perceived the distance toward a steep slope as longer than the distance away from it.
Experimental data supported predictions derived from evolved navigation theory.
The "plateau illusion" was consistently observed.

Conclusions:

The "plateau illusion" demonstrates a systematic bias in distance perception.
This illusion may be an evolved, embodied response to navigational risks associated with slopes.
Perception of distance is influenced by potential navigational hazards.