Shape Perception Research Articles

INFORMATION AND REALITY: PROBLEMS OF REFLECTION, PERCEPTION AND INTERPRETATION

The concept of information is related to fundamental philosophical questions: the relationship between being and thinking, truth and delusion, problems of communication in human society, problems of virtual reality, their connection with language, etc. The topic of information in its various aspects has recently become one of the most popular among scientists, publicists, journalists, and politicians. To date, there is a wide variety of definitions of the concept of “information”, however, there is no generally accepted understanding of the nature of information and the ways of its existence. On the basis of the semantic approach in the theory of information using semiotic methodology, the problem of the relationship and relationship between information and reality is considered; on this basis, the symbolic nature of information is analyzed, the problem of perception and interpretation of information by its recipients is investigated, the reasons and mechanisms of information distortion are analyzed. Information is considered as a sign, a representative of reality. There is always an uncertain, unstable, situational connection between signs and reality. There is a possibility of the existence of information in its pure form, without real events, which is not tied to real reality. Distortion is considered as a property of information; it is caused by the symbolic nature of information. The concept of “reality” is analyzed. Reality is largely a cultural construct, culture and society play a significant role in shaping perceptions of reality. Information becomes a model of reality, and at the same time information models reality. The concepts of “virtual reality” and “informational reality” are in use, which, in fact, are iconic constructions simulating reality.

Unlocking the promise of process mining: shaping perceptions and impact in the public sector

PurposeWorldwide challenges impose public organizations to rethink their processes and satisfactorily meet citizens’ needs. Process mining (PM) techniques enable organizations to objectively analyse and improve their processes, by providing higher process transparency and efficiency. However, extant literature on PM applications in the public sector reveals there is still limited evidence on the opportunities and challenges perceived from PM introduction in the public sector, and on PM potential to enhance public sector digital transformation: this study aims to fill these gaps.Design/methodology/approachBased on Business Process Management and digital innovation fields of research, we administered a questionnaire to a sample of Italian civil servants working in different public organizations to investigate their perceptions of PM opportunities and challenges and the extent to which it can support public sector digital transformation. A three-level analysis was conducted to inspect findings with different levels of granularity, and results were analysed both descriptively and quantitatively.FindingsWe found a positive attitude towards PM introduction in the public sector, and perceived opportunities and challenges related to both the technical and the social systems. The triangulation between close-ended and open-ended questions suggests that PM could be the missing link between public sector digitalization and digital transformation. These findings can be used by policymakers to develop the best strategies to introduce PM into public organizations and support its adoption, and by researchers to further explore PM role in public sector digital transformation.Originality/valueDespite PM claiming to push digital transformation, it is not clear if it is also true for public sector organizations. This paper addresses this gap and it is among the first attempts to explore PM from civil servants’ viewpoint to investigate their perceptions of PM opportunities and challenges, as well as the variables that influence these perceptions.

Mapping for connection, a life beyond mapping for control: lessons from ‘mapping-as-performance’ with Empatheatre in South Africa

This paper critically examines the intersections of Science, colonialism, and cartography in shaping perceptions of the ocean and its human-nature relationships. Drawing on Postcolonial Science and Technology Studies (PCSTS) and Decolonial Theory, it scrutinizes historical mapping practices, revealing how they perpetuated ontological hierarchies and controlled narratives of the ocean. Through archival research spanning from the Revolution to colonial exploration, the paper exposes how maps framed the ocean as a controllable entity, obscuring socio-cultural dimensions of biodiversity. Focusing on a case study in Northern Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa, the authors explore an Empatheatre mapping process, that challenges Western ontologies and promotes counter-hegemonic cartographic practices. Situating this within critical cartography and PCSTS literature, the paper reveals how colonial projects molded perceptions of oceanic space and influenced environmental governance. In the South African context, the ocean is haunted by a violent history of racial exclusion and ecological exploitation. Initiatives like Operation Phakisa’s Blue Economy plan underscore the tension between economic growth and ecological sustainability, leading to rapid coastal developments. Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) emerges as a tool to reconcile these interests, yet its implementation raises questions about inclusivity and community participation. Introducing the Empatheatre method, characterized by a ‘Call and Response’ approach, the paper invites local communities to co-create maps reflecting their concerns and relationships with the ocean. Through attentive listening and collaborative storytelling, Empatheatre challenges traditional consultation methods, prioritizing meaningful engagement and collective meaning-making. Mapping in this context is not merely a static representation but a dynamic process of collective thinking and relationality. By foregrounding the social, cultural, and ecological context, Empatheatre’s approach redefines the mapmaker-map relationship and empowers communities as active agents in shaping their narratives. The transformative potential of Empatheatre lies in its ability to shift power dynamics and foster empathy between diverse stakeholders. Through performative storytelling and visual representations, Empatheatre creates space for marginalized voices and alternative modes of knowledge transmission. In conclusion, this paper advocates for a decolonial approach to oceanic cartographies that acknowledges diverse ontologies and fosters inclusive governance structures.

Exploring how community context informs variations in local perceptions of forest disturbance and land management in Colorado over time

Place-based socio-economic and biophysical context has been viewed as an essential driver in shaping perceptions of forest risks and land management. Growing evidence of the importance of diverse community context in forested landscapes sets the stage to further consider how people's understandings of their local environment influence natural resource management preferences. However, research to date largely lacks considerations of how community context informs social responses to long-term environmental change over time. Using the mountain pine beetle (MPB) outbreak in Colorado, we analyze and compare longitudinal interview and survey data collected from nine north-central Colorado communities to understand the relationships between community context and changing perceptions of forest disturbance and engagement with land management. Both qualitative and quantitative findings show that community context framed and continues to inform variations in local perceptions of the MPB outbreak and forest management. Interviews with key informants provided rich narratives on different context-based trajectories in local residents' perceptional responses, while survey data allowed for general patterns of evolving community variations (e.g., stable or clearer community clustering, reduced community differences) to be uncovered. We explore methodological implications for community indication and future directions for understanding differing community responses to slow-moving environmental change. Incorporating knowledge of changing local contexts and variations can also help practitioners advance toward more dynamic and effective management strategies.

“Thank you for being there for me”: How channel publicness and expression of gratitude shape perceptions of support-seeking messages on social network sites

ABSTRACT The current study investigates how channel publicness and the expression of gratitude in support-seeking messages on social network sites shape support providers’ impressions of a support seeker and likelihood to offer help. Participants (N = 255) completed an online survey in which they were randomly assigned to view one of the eight hypothetical support-seeking messages that varied according to the publicness of the channel, expression of gratitude, and the type of stressor. Results suggest that seeking support in a public channel is viewed as less appropriate and corresponds with less liking and likelihood to provide support than seeking support in a private channel. Contrary to expectations, support providers reported the lowest likelihood to help and lowest appropriateness when the support seeker expressed gratitude while seeking support in a public channel. Findings are discussed in relation to the literature on seeking support and research on the communication of gratitude.

Embedded memory wars: Italy’s 2019 Armenian Genocide recognition

Scholars often associate the political instrumentalisation of memory with right-wing populists. But this focus somewhat obscures the fact that elected officials across the political spectrum instrumentalise memory in their efforts to shape perceptions and influence behaviours. In fact, the success of memory laws often depends on the fact that MPs from diverse political parties support the same projects not only to validate their own views but also to delegitimise those of others. I refer to the conflicts resulting from different political actors’ support of the same memory laws as embedded memory wars. Based on documentary analysis and fieldwork interviews, this article examines embedded memory wars through the illustrative case of the 2019 recognition of the Armenian Genocide in Italy's Chamber of Deputies. In supporting Armenian Genocide recognition, Italian MPs from both right and left-wing parties developed competing narratives to debate contemporary topics related to European integration, multiculturalism, and Turkey.

Racialized teacher tracking: the systematic exclusion of black teachers from advanced-level coursework

ABSTRACT This study systematically investigates the relationship between race/ethnicity and assignment patterns to Advanced Placement (AP) courses by exploring notions of racialized teacher tracking. Administrative data are used to examine AP course assignment in Texas high schools between 2012–2019. Findings show consistent disparities in the likelihood of Black teachers being assigned an AP course, even when controlling for teachers’ graduate degrees, certification pathways, and career levels. Alongside interrelated micro and macro-level institutional factors influencing teacher assignment, findings demonstrate that race/ethnicity structures Black teachers’ access to school resources and shapes perceptions of their legitimacy and status.

INFLUENCE OF RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ON HALAL PURCHASE INTENTION IN NON-MUSLIM CUSTOMERS

This study investigates the influence of religious beliefs, perceived benefits of halal products, social influence, and attitudes towards halal products on the halal purchase intention among non-Muslim customers in Surabaya. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 150 non-Muslim respondents through an online survey distributed via social media. The analysis was conducted using SmartPLS to evaluate the relationships between the constructs. The findings reveal that even among non-Muslim customers, strong religious beliefs can foster positive attitudes towards halal products due to shared ethical and health values. Perceived benefits, including health, ethical, and quality advantages, significantly enhance attitudes towards halal products. Social influence from family, friends, and social media positively impacts non-Muslim customers' attitudes, highlighting the role of social endorsement in shaping perceptions. Furthermore, a positive attitude towards halal products is a strong predictor of purchase intention, indicating that favorable perceptions directly translate into a higher likelihood of purchase. These findings contribute to the understanding of consumer behavior in the context of halal products and offer practical implications for businesses aiming to target non-Muslim customers. By recognizing the importance of religious beliefs, perceived benefits, and social influence, companies can develop more effective marketing strategies to promote halal products beyond the Muslim community. .

Concurrent and longitudinal associations of dissatisfaction with height and weight, body mass index with sleep disturbance among adolescents in China.

Sleep disturbance in adolescents is a significant global public health issue that can result in various physical and mental disorders. Height and weight dissatisfaction, as subjective perceptions of body shape, are common in adolescence and may affect individuals' sleep situations. However, the association of them is unclear. This study aimed to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations among height dissatisfaction, weight dissatisfaction, body mass index (BMI), and sleep disturbance in adolescents. A total of 27,260 participants completed measures of sleep disturbance, height and weight satisfaction, and BMI. The cross-sectional and longitudinal effects of height satisfaction, weight satisfaction, and BMI as well as their changes in sleep disturbance over time were tested. Height satisfaction (ps < 0.001) and weight satisfaction (ps < 0.001) were negatively associated with concurrent sleep disturbance after adjusting for socio-demographic covariates and previous sleep disturbance. Height satisfaction (ps < 0.001) and weight satisfaction (ps < 0.001) at T1 as well as their increases (ps < 0.001) over 6 months predicted decreases in sleep disturbance over time. The cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between BMI and sleep disturbance were not significant (ps > 0.42). Moreover, height dissatisfaction (ORs = 1.06 to 1.34) and weight dissatisfaction (ORs = 1.21 to 1.36) were risk factors for concurrent and long-term sleep disturbance while adjusting socio-demographic covariates and previous sleep disturbance. Greater attention to subjective perception of height satisfaction and weight satisfaction, instead of BMI is needed.

The Role of Advertising in Shaping Consumer Perceptions of Sustainable Brands

This research investigates the pivotal role of advertising in shaping consumer perceptions of sustainable brands, delving into the intricate mechanisms by which advertising strategies influence consumer attitudes and behaviors towards sustainability. Through an extensive review of literature, empirical findings, and prospective research directions, this study illuminates the nuanced landscape of sustainability advertising and its profound implications for marketers and consumers. The research underscores the burgeoning significance of sustainable branding within contemporary marketing paradigms, propelled by the escalating consumer interest in sustainability and ethical consumption. Empirical investigations affirm a robust positive correlation between advertising exposure to sustainable brands and consumer perceptions, underscoring the substantial impact of advertising on molding attitudes and driving purchase behavior. The researcher explores the influence of advertising on consumer perceptions of sustainable brands, through a comprehensive review of literature, qualitative and empirical analysis, investigates the mechanisms by which advertising strategies impact consumer attitudes and behaviors towards sustainable brands, explore theories and concepts that provide insights into the mechanisms by which advertising strategies impact consumer attitudes and behaviors towards sustainable brands. Additionally, present the findings of empirical analysis, which further elucidates these relationships and sheds light on the significant role of advertising in shaping perceptions of sustainability and provide insights for marketers aiming to promote sustainable products and initiatives.

Perceptual Biases in the Interpretation of Non-Rigid Shape Transformations from Motion.

Most existing research on the perception of 3D shape from motion has focused on rigidly moving objects. However, many natural objects deform non-rigidly, leading to image motion with no rigid interpretation. We investigated potential biases underlying the perception of non-rigid shape interpretations from motion. We presented observers with stimuli that were consistent with two qualitatively different interpretations. Observers were shown a two-part 3D object with the smaller part changing in length dynamically as the whole object rotated back and forth. In two experiments, we studied the misperception (i.e., perceptual reinterpretation) of the non-rigid length change to a part. In Experiment 1, observers misperceived this length change as a part orientation change (i.e., the smaller part was seen as articulating with respect to the larger part). In Experiment 2, the stimuli were similar, except the silhouette of the part was visible in the image. Here, the non-rigid length change was reinterpreted as a rigidly attached part with an "illusory" non-orthogonal horizontal angle relative to the larger part. We developed a model that incorporated this perceptual reinterpretation and could predict observer data. We propose that the visual system may be biased towards part-wise rigid interpretations of non-rigid motion, likely due to the ecological significance of movements of humans and other animals, which are generally constrained to move approximately part-wise rigidly. That is, not all non-rigid deformations are created equal: the visual systems' prior expectations may bias the system to interpret motion in terms of biologically plausible shape transformations.

Direct Democracy and Funding for Public Park and Recreation Services: Consumer Confidence and Support for Greenspace Ballot Initiatives

Maintaining or increasing tax-based allocations is a strategic imperative for many public park and recreation agencies. Some agencies have the capacity to do so by sponsoring ballot initiatives proposing property tax increases in support of operational and capital expenses. In this manuscript we investigate the role of beliefs about the economy in shaping perceptions of such “greenspace ballot initiatives.” Specifically, we examine whether attitudes toward, and support for, greenspace ballot initiatives vary according to an individual’s willingness to buy—operationalized as their consumer confidence. Our results indicate that—independent of income—voters with higher levels of consumer confidence feel more positively toward ballot initiatives that would raise their property taxes to support public parks and recreation, and are more likely to vote in favor of them. We conclude by discussing potential implications for decision makers and future research efforts.

Branding in a Budding Industry: The Influence of Visual Cues on Consumer Behavior in the Cannabis Market

This study investigates the impact of visual branding cues on consumer responses in the cannabis market. Visual communication plays a critical role in shaping consumer behavior and perception. However, limited research exists on how consumers evaluate visual branding cues in the context of cannabis products. This study focuses on the effects of branded versus unbranded cannabis packaging for edible and inhalable products. It explores consumer product trust, product attitude, purchase intention, and willingness to pay in relation to visual branding cues. By investigating the impact of visual branding cues in the cannabis market, this study contributes new insights into the applicability of cue utilization theory and the theory of reasoned actions through this novel context.

Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the right inferior parietal lobe on the body image perception in anorexia nervosa: A pilot randomized controlled study.

Restrictive anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with distorted perception of body shape, previously linked to hypoactivity and reduced excitability of the right inferior parietal lobe (rIPL). Here, we investigated the impact of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (HF rTMS) of the rIPL on body shape perception in patients with AN. Seventeen patients with AN (median [Q1_Q3] age, 35 [27_39] years; disease duration, 12 [6_18] years) were randomly assigned to receive real or sham HF (10Hz) rTMS of the rIPL over a period of 2weeks, comprising 10 sessions. The primary outcome measure was the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ). Secondary outcomes included eating disorder symptoms, body mass index, mood, anxiety, and safety. Data collection were done at baseline, post-rTMS, and at 2weeks and 3 months post-rTMS. Following both real and sham rTMS of the rIPL, no significant differences were observed in body shape perception or other parameters. Both real and sham rTMS interventions were deemed safe and well tolerated. Notably, serious adverse events were associated with the underlying eating and mood disorders, resulting in hospitalization for undernutrition (five patients) or suicidal attempts (two patients). This pilot study does not support the use of rTMS of the rIPL as an effective method for improving body shape perception in individuals with the restrictive form of AN. Further research is warranted to comprehensively explore both the clinical and neurophysiological effects of HF rTMS in this population.

A visual social semiotic investigation into the popularity of Ronaldo and Messi’s chess photo on Instagram: Implications for new media and audience engagement

This qualitative study adopts a visual social semiotic approach to examine the multifaceted engagement incited by Annie Leibovitz’s photograph portraying Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in a contemplative game of chess, ensconced amidst an array of Louis Vuitton merchandise. Through semiotics, mise en scène, and sociolinguistics, we unravel the photograph’s layered significances, employing studium and punctum to dissect viewer engagement. Cognitive linguistics reveals the interplay of myths, metaphors, and metonymy, crafting a narrative that intertwines football, chess, and luxury into potent cultural symbols. The mise en scène theory illuminates the nuanced balance between authenticity and artifice, while sociolinguistic insights bridge visual and linguistic communications for a diverse audience. The photograph, as a convergence of composition, culture, and technology, exemplifies how visual narratives blend these elements to forge connections and evoke responses. This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of digital visual storytelling’s power in shaping cultural dialogues and perceptions, showcasing the role of iconic imagery in the tapestry of social media discourse.

The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions of Women's Empowerment: Challenges and Opportunities for Change

This paper delves into the complex role of media in influencing perceptions of women's empowerment, highlighting the various obstacles and possibilities for transformation. Through a meticulous examination of the available literature, this study offers valuable insights into the impact of media on societal perceptions of women's empowerment. The paper thoroughly examines the portrayal of women in traditional media outlets and the changing landscape of digital platforms by analysing secondary data from various academic sources. The findings shed light on the intricate relationship between media portrayals and efforts to empower women, underscoring the importance of actively analysing media stories to promote substantial advancements. The study highlights the impact of media on shaping and reinforcing societal views on gender, which in turn can shape public opinion and policy decisions. Moreover, the analysis highlights the significance of digital media in offering fresh avenues for women's voices, while also posing novel obstacles like online harassment and misinformation. In conclusion, the paper highlights the significance of media literacy and advocacy in addressing gender stereotypes and advancing gender equality. There is a need for greater awareness and education to empower audiences to evaluate media content in a discerning manner, resulting in a more balanced portrayal of women in media stories.

Categorizing Institutional Trust in South Korea: Evidence From the 2021 Social Integration Survey

What explains institutional trust in South Korea and to what extent does this differ across types of institutions? Existing research focuses on performance versus generalized social trust, but rarely evaluates types of state institutions or compares them with views on non-state institutions, making it unclear whether the same underlying factors shape perceptions. With data from South Korea's 2021 Social Integration Survey, I find stronger evidence of generalized social trust over performance measures, with variation across categories of institutions.

The transgenerational transmission of physical attractiveness perceptions: Role of parents' physical activity and nutrition habits in modelling body-focused health attitudes and body shape perception in five-year-old offspring

Introduction: Observing parents’ body-focused behaviours during middle childhood is one of the initial ways in which children model their perceptions of pro-health attitudes and their connection to physical attractiveness. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between parents' health behaviours, their appearance, and the perceptions of adult body types (skinny, medium, obese) by their five-year-old children. Moreover, the role of gender in the above relationship for both children and parents was also examined. Materials and methods: This study participants were 680 families with five-year-old children (330 girls). Participation was limited to the moth-er-father-child triad. The Beauty and Health Scale, Healthy Behaviour Inventory, Inventory of Physical Activity Objectives, and a body composition analyser were used to measure body fat percentage. Results: Assessment of pictures of male silhouettes by five-year-old girls revealed the perception that men who exercise do not lose weight but maintain a healthy, attractive appearance. However, they believed that women should actively lose weight to achieve an attractive figure. Interestingly, women were more likely to be perceived as overweight, despite engaging in physical activity. Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of integrating health education and physical activity interventions into family-oriented disease prevention programmes aimed at cultivating positive health behaviours in children as well as parents.

Are consumers still barking up the wrong (palm) tree? Insights into perceptions towards palm oil-related labels and claims

Labels and claims representing inherent health- or environment-related attributes contribute to shaping consumer product preferences and perceptions. Palm oil-related labels and claims foster assumptions about individual, social and planetary health. Although consumers in palm oil-importing countries view this commodity with scepticism, a consumer-endorsed trend towards its elimination may cause unintended shifts in environmental impacts. Instead of eliminating palm oil from industries, scientists often acknowledge the benefits of sustainably produced palm oil as a better alternative. A research gap exists to better explain consumer acceptance or rejection of products containing palm oil. To understand how palm oil-related labels and claims influence the perceived sustainability and healthiness of products, an online study was conducted with German consumers (n = 411). Predictors influencing sustainability perceptions were integrated into a Structural Equation Model to explore how these leverage positive or negative perspectives towards the absence of palm oil or the presence of certified sustainable palm oil. This study reveals that products containing no palm oil are perceived to be healthier and more sustainable. We find that sentiments towards palm oil do not necessarily follow traditional trajectories, but are underpinned by disjoint relationships and previously established judgments. Label heuristics are more influential in shaping these perceptions, making them prone to misinterpretation. A proliferation of ‘free from’ claims haloed with sustainability assumptions compromises the progress achieved within the certified sector. This calls for more sensitivity towards products containing certified palm oil, so that assumptions align with reality and consumer perceptions are not barking up the wrong tree.

‘I just LOVE data’: perceptions and practices of data sharing and privacy among users of the Lioness

High profile data breaches and the proliferation of self-tracking technologies generating bio-feedback data have raised concerns about data privacy and data sharing practices among users of these devices. However, our understanding of how self-trackers in sexual health populations, where the data may be sensitive, personal, and stigmatising, perceive data privacy and sharing is limited. This study combined industry consultation with a survey of users of the world’s first biofeedback smart vibrator, the Lioness, that enables users to monitor and analyse their sexual response intensity and orgasm duration over time. We found users of the Lioness are motivated to self-track by both individual and altruistic goals: to learn more about their bodies, and to contribute to research that leads to better sexual health outcomes. Perceptions of data privacy and data sharing were shaped by an eagerness to collaborate with sexual health researchers to challenge traditional male-centric perspectives in biomedical research on women’s sexual health, where gender plays a crucial role in defining healthcare systems and outcomes. This study extends our understanding of the non-digital aspects of self-tracking by emphasising the role of gender and inclusive healthcare advocacy in shaping perceptions of data privacy and sharing within sexual health populations.