Curiosity

Curiosity can be defined as a motive to explore the environment. In a classic study of curiosity, rhesus monkeys were confined in a small room. If they pushed a bar, they were allowed to peer out a small rectangular window. The monkeys proved willing to press the bar many times for opportunities to look through the window.

What is evidence that curiosity can motivate animals? What is Berlyne's concept of "ludic behavior"?


Monkeys work hard for the privilege of looking out a small window

Daniel Berlyne developed a theory based on motivating effects of curiosity and play. He called it ludic behavior (from the Latin ludere, "to play"). Berlyne said ludic behavior included exploration, investigation, curiosity, art, and intellectual play such as science and humor.



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Copyright © 2007 Russ Dewey