Articles

Scientific explorations of spirals and convergence phenomena in mathematics, physics, biology, astronomy, computer science and complex systems.

6 articles · Perception

Perception
Perception
15–20 min

Illusory Spirals: When the Brain Curves What Is Straight

Some images seem to contain spirals or continuous rotation while they are made of circles, segments or static contrasts. These illusions reveal the shortcuts of the visual system.

Jun 28, 2026Read →
Perception
Perception
16–22 min

Music, Circle of Fifths and Cochlea: Three Distinct Geometries

The circle of fifths organizes keys, harmonics follow frequency ratios and the cochlea is coiled in the inner ear. These three structures are linked to music, but not by a single spiral mechanism.

May 25, 2026Read →
Perception
Perception
18–24 min

Curvilinear Perspective: Convergence Without Mandatory Spiral

Linear perspective relies on the convergence of parallel lines toward a vanishing point. In curvilinear perspective, these lines curve. The brain uses these cues to reconstruct three-dimensional depth.

Jan 12, 2026Read →
Perception
Perception
20–27 min

Turning Dance: Body, Balance and Cultural Meaning

Rotation is present in the ritual practices of all human cultures. Whirling dervishes, shamanic dances and trance rituals use prolonged rotation to induce altered states of consciousness.

Jan 8, 2026Read →
Perception
Perception
20–27 min

Prehistoric Spirals: A Common Pattern, Uncertain Meanings

Spirals carved in rock appear on every continent since the Neolithic. Is it a universal symbol rooted in human cognition, or an independent convergence toward a naturally salient form?

Jan 4, 2026Read →
Perception
Perception
22–30 min

Vertigo and Nystagmus: How the Vestibule Encodes Rotation

The semicircular canals of the inner ear detect angular rotations of the head. Vertigo occurs when this system is disrupted, and the nystagmus that accompanies it itself traces a spiral trajectory.

Dec 30, 2025Read →