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" But why are we attracted to symmetry?

Why do we human beings delight in seeing perfectly round planets through the lens of a telescope and six-sided snowflakes on a cold winter day?

The answer must be partly psychological.

I would claim that symmetry represents order, and we crave order in this strange universe we find ourselves in.

The search for symmetry, and the emotional pleasure we derive when we find it, must help us make sense of the the seasons and the reliability of friendships.

Symmetry is also economy.
Symmetry is simplicity. "

Alan Lightman


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Alan Lightman quote : But why are we attracted to symmetry?<br /><br />Why do we human beings delight in seeing perfectly round planets through the lens of a telescope and six-sided snowflakes on a cold winter day? <br /><br />The answer must be partly psychological. <br /><br />I would claim that symmetry represents order, and we crave order in this strange universe we find ourselves in. <br /><br />The search for symmetry, and the emotional pleasure we derive when we find it, must help us make sense of the the seasons and the reliability of friendships.<br /><br />Symmetry is also economy. <br />Symmetry is simplicity.