ilecent inv~sti~ations into the attitudinal effects of mere exposure (2ajonc, 1968) report the surprising finding that exploratory behavior and favorable attitudes appear to be negatively related (Harrison, 1968).This finding was supportive of Zajonc's general suggestion that a response-conflict phenomenon may well be mediating his well-docurn.entedmere exposure effects.This research examines the relationship between exploratory behavior and affective rating in light of some theoretical and intuitive considerations which lead to predictions opposite those of Harrison.The empirical question which is asked is whether looking time (the generally accepted measure of exploratory behavior) reflects a positive or negative disposition towards slides of paintings in a relatively demand-free situation.A significant positive correlation was found to exist between the measures of exploratory behavior and affective rating.A critique is made of the Harriflon (1968) study which reported.conflictingresults and upon which this study is based.Some evidence supporting specific criticisms is advanced and methodological considerations relevant to this area of research are explored. I, I