This thesis examines the neurobiological foundations of consonance perception within musical scales and analyzes to what extent the sensation of musical pleasantness arises from innate mechanisms or is shaped by cultural influences. The focus is on sensory (acoustic) consonance, which is rooted in the auditory system through mechanisms such as phase locking, spatial coding, and the synchronization of neural oscillations. Three central theoretical perspectives are explored: the evolutionary view, which interprets consonance as an adaptation to voice-like frequency ratios; the cognitive approach, based on the perceptual simplicity of harmonic structures; and the neurodynamic model, which links consonance to oscillatory stability in the brain. Empirical studies show that biological responses to consonant intervals are universally present, yet significantly influenced by musical training, cultural background, and auditory exposure. Consonance thus emerges as the result of a dynamic interplay between biological predispositions and experiential factors, with neuroplasticity playing a crucial role. This thesis contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of musical perception through the lens of neuroscience and cultural studies. The work highlights the role of musical scales as key cultural frameworks that shape consonance perception. The Appendix also includes a historical survey of consonance theory.
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