title: Evolutionary adaptations: theoretical and practical implications for visual ergonomics.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The literature discussing visual ergonomics often mention that human vision is adapted to light emitted by the sun. However, theoretical and practical implications of this viewpoint is seldom discussed or taken into account.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The paper discusses some of the main theoretical implications of an evolutionary approach to visual ergonomics.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Based on interactional theory and ideas from ecological psychology an evolutionary stress model is proposed as a theoretical framework for future research in ergonomics and human factors. The model stresses the importance of developing work environments that fits with our evolutionary adaptations. In accordance with evolutionary psychology, the environment of evolutionary adaptedness (EEA) and evolutionarily-novel environments (EN) are used as key concepts. Using work with visual display units (VDU) as an example, the paper discusses how this knowledge can be utilized in an ergonomic analysis of risk factors in the work environment.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The paper emphasises the importance of incorporating evolutionary theory in the field of ergonomics. Further, the paper encourages scientific practices that further our understanding of any phenomena beyond the borders of traditional proximal explanations.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
authors.forename: Knut Inge
authors.initials: KI
authors.lastname: Fostervold
authors.affiliation: Lillehammer University College, Lillehammer, Norway.
authors.forename: Reidulf G
authors.initials: RG
authors.lastname: Watten
authors.affiliation: Gjøvik University College, Gjøvik, Norway.
authors.forename: Frode
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Volden
mesh_terms: D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D005075:Biological Evolution; D016288:Computer Terminals; D006804:Ergonomics; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D016272:Occupational Health; D014785:Vision, Ocular; D017132:Workplace
keywords: Visual ecology; environment; evolution; human nature; visual display unit (VDU)