What is meant by 'surprisingness' in Berlyne's aesthetics?

In Berlyne's aesthetics, 'surprisingness' refers to the presence of unexpected elements that capture attention and provoke curiosity. This concept is integral to the understanding of aesthetic experience, as it suggests that individuals are drawn to stimuli that defy their expectations. When unexpected features are included in design or art, they can evoke an emotional response, stimulate exploration, and enhance engagement with the work.

Surprisingness plays a significant role in how people perceive and appreciate art and design. It encourages cognitive exploration and can lead to deeper engagement, as viewers seek to understand the rationale behind the unexpected elements. Such features can create a balance between the familiar and the unfamiliar, making the experience more dynamic and memorable.

The other choices reflect concepts that are contrary to 'surprisingness.' Predictable elements or common design features lack the intrigue associated with novelty, while a lack of unexpected features would consequently result in a diminished aesthetic experience, as there would be nothing to surprise or engage the viewer. Thus, the presence of unexpected elements is what defines and enhances the concept of surprisingness in Berlyne's framework.