bbc.com
Scientists Create Novel Color Through Laser Stimulation
US scientists used lasers to stimulate specific retinal cells, resulting in participants perceiving a new blue-green color, "olo," which could advance color blindness research; however, some experts question whether it's a truly new color.
- What are the immediate implications of the discovery of "olo" for color perception research?
- A team of US scientists claim to have created a new color, "olo," by using lasers to stimulate specific cells in the retina. Participants reported seeing a blue-green hue described as more saturated than any naturally occurring color. This discovery is published in Science Advances.
- What are the potential long-term implications of this research for understanding and treating color blindness?
- The potential implications for color blindness research are significant. The ability to selectively stimulate cone cells opens avenues for understanding and potentially treating color vision deficiencies. The study raises broader questions about the nature of color perception and the limits of human visual experience, although the claim of a completely new color remains debatable among experts.
- How does the laser stimulation of M cone cells without simultaneous stimulation of neighboring cells create a novel color experience?
- The study involved five participants with normal color vision who viewed a laser-induced color that appears to be outside the range of naturally occurring colors. This "olo" color results from stimulating M cone cells without simultaneously stimulating neighboring L and/or S cones, a phenomenon not seen in typical vision. The researchers believe this could have implications for research into color blindness.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introduction emphasize the scientists' claim of a 'new color,' potentially overstating the significance of the findings. The use of quotes like "remarkable" and descriptions of the color as "more saturated than any color that you can see in the real world" are presented uncritically, potentially swaying reader opinion toward accepting the claim as fact. The article would benefit from more neutral language and a more balanced presentation of the ongoing debate among scientists.
Language Bias
The article uses language that leans towards presenting the scientists' claims positively. Phrases like "remarkable" and descriptions of the color as "more saturated" without further qualification might influence readers to believe in the discovery without critically evaluating the evidence. More neutral language, such as 'interesting results' or 'novel perceptual experience,' would be preferable.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the scientists' claims and their experiment, but it could benefit from including perspectives from a wider range of experts in the field of color perception. While one dissenting voice is mentioned, additional viewpoints would strengthen the piece and provide a more balanced presentation of the scientific debate.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the issue as a simple 'discovery of a new color' versus 'it's open to argument.' The reality is likely more nuanced, with the possibility of a new perceptual experience, rather than a universally accepted 'new color.'
Sustainable Development Goals
The research has the potential to improve the understanding and treatment of color blindness, a condition affecting visual health and well-being. The discovery of a new color through targeted retinal stimulation opens avenues for innovative therapies and treatments.