Recently, it has been shown that noise can enhance the detection and transmission of weak signals in certain nonlinear systems. Here we demonstrate noise-mediated improvements in human sensory perception. We show that the ability of an individual to detect a subthreshold tactile stimulus can be significantly enhanced by introducing a particular level of noise. We demonstrate that this effect is robust over time. We also show that the ability of an individual to detect a suprathreshold tactile stimulus can be degraded by the presence of noise. These findings indicate that noise can serve as a “negative masker” for the perception of weak stimuli and a “positive masker” for the perception of strong stimuli. We discuss the possibility of developing a noise-based technique for improving tactile sensation in humans.

• Received 31 December 1996

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.56.923