Evolución de la esclerótica del ojo humano: Una hipótesis social

Bernardo Yáñez, Antoni Gomila

Resumen


Abstract. Evolution of the human sclera: A social hypothesis.

This paper argues that the function of the human eye is not only to see, but also to “be seen”. This is so inasmuch the human sclera remains white, making possible for others to perceive the orientation of the eyes and the gaze direction. Hence, the sclera has a social function. The argument is grounded in comparative, ontogenetic and theoretical considerations, which aim to establish the coevolution of a reliable and honest signal system related to the human eye’s morphology. We conclude vindicating such an integrated approach when addressing the question of human specificities.

 

Key words. Sclera, coevolution, gaze, visual contact, human eye, vision, signal system, human specificities.

 


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