A Study on Posthuman Image Types and MZ Generation’s Perception of Humanity

This study examines posthuman images that have become prevalent in contemporary visual culture, focusing on how the cognitive responses of MZ generation viewers differ according to visual representation types. Posthuman images were classified into three types：Mechanical hybrid type, Biological hybrid type and Composite hybrid type, and differences in cognitive responses were analyzed in terms of perceived Human-Likeness, Liking, and Psychological Discomfort. The research materials consisted of the posthuman-themed NFT artwork ikon-1 by British fashion photographer Nick Knight. Through case analysis, the three image types were identified and representative images for each type were selected. These images were used as experimental stimuli in an online survey. The collected data were statistically analyzed to examine differences in cognitive responses across posthuman image types. The results showed significant differences in cognitive responses depending on image type. Images that were visually closer to human appearance did not necessarily elicit more positive cognitive responses. Instead, viewers’ responses varied according to the ways bodily components were combined and the characteristics of visual expression. This study is meaningful in that it approaches posthuman images as concrete visual types rather than abstract theoretical concepts and empirically examines their relationship with viewers’ cognitive responses. The findings provide foundational insights for understanding and applying posthuman images in future digital content environments.