Publications [#268347] of Dale Purves

Papers Published

1. Bowling, DL; Purves, D (2015). A biological rationale for musical consonance.. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 112(36), 11155-11160. [doi]
   (last updated on 2023/06/01)

   Abstract:
   The basis of musical consonance has been debated for centuries without resolution. Three interpretations have been considered: (i) that consonance derives from the mathematical simplicity of small integer ratios; (ii) that consonance derives from the physical absence of interference between harmonic spectra; and (iii) that consonance derives from the advantages of recognizing biological vocalization and human vocalization in particular. Whereas the mathematical and physical explanations are at odds with the evidence that has now accumulated, biology provides a plausible explanation for this central issue in music and audition.