A window of subliminal perception

Abstract

<p>Under labels such as unconscious processing and subliminal perception, identification of stimuli falling below the subjective threshold has been found remarkably accurate in some experiments while completely at chance in others. Here, we first demonstrate the existence of a window of subliminal perception in humans using different experimental paradigms and analysis methods. We then show that the standard signal detection theory (SDT) model is unable to accounts for this window and extend it until it is. We finally compare a range of models on empirical data. The models performing best are notable for their absence of hierarchical levels, indicating that the window could be a base property of any phenomenally conscious system. The models further explain previously incompatible findings in the literature, and they allow for estimations of peaks in subthreshold perception across the spectrum of stimulus saliency, which may be used in further studies of subliminal perception.</p>