Perception manipulation is a powerful tool

Design is a manipulation. Here is one example: Texas highways have speed limits of 70 mph. To reduce car accidents, the authorities employed architects to devise a solution. They decided to change the perception of a speed during driving. First, they designed lines across the road that gradually got closer together, making drivers feel like they were speeding up; next, they planted more trees next to the road, that gave the impression of narrower lanes and higher speed than actual.

All this caused drivers to slow down, resulting in 46% decrease in crash rate.

Road tunnel

In this example, a designer cleverly manipulated drivers' cognition to make them aware that they were speeding.

Alas, not all design manipulations are for a good cause. Look no further than casinos where whole buildings and surrounding areas are planned and built for exploiting mere humans.

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