Human Facial Perception of Primates Through ERP Measurement
Several studies have examined the capacity of humans to perceive primate faces through both electrophysiological means and non-electrophysiological means. Through subsequent data, humans have been shown to be far more adept at recognizing human faces when compared to non-human primates. However, perceptual research spanning across non-human primate species is limited. In this study, I utilized EEG technology to compare the amplitude and latency of the P1 and N170 components in adults when exposed to chimp, macaque, and human faces. I determined that chimpanzee faces result in a significantly higher P1 and N170 amplitude, as well as a faster N170 latency. Exposure to macaque faces resulted in a significantly faster P1 latency. These findings support non-evolutionary mechanisms for facial processing. In addition, the results from the chimpanzee face trials align with previous literature regarding human perception of threatening faces. Overall, through the measurement of the P1 and N170 components, more insight could be gained in regards to human perception of different primate species.