Similarities

Equation

Similarity occurs when two elements are seen to conform to a single pattern. As discussed in this tutorial, similarity encompasses a number of the principles that the Gestalt psychologists developed to explain observed properties of the perceptual process.

  • Gestalt Similarity: Similarity of attribute, sharing perceivable characteristics between two elements
  • Gestalt Proximity: Similarity of position, including grouping, distance from a point
  • Gestalt Continuity: Similarity of orientation and contour (limited mainly to the graphic and plastic arts)
  • Gestalt Equilibrium: Simplicity, balance (similarity about a point or line)
  • Equivalent ideas occur within the sphere of intellectual depth. Ideas can share features, have an ideological proximity, continue from one system of thought to another, be simple, balanced and easily understood.
  • Similarity, however, is a simpler idea than these. Similarity is sameness, of attribute, or of position. The Gestalt principles serve well to explain the particular experimental evidence with which the psychologists were dealing, but all of the principles can be understood in terms of the simpler definition. Furthermore, the simpler definition allows us to treat mental and physical similarity similarly.
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Similarity of Attribute or Form
Similarity of Position or Relationship

Document Name: tc.instinct.sim.htm
Copyright (c) 1997 -- Mike Fletcher
Reproduction for other than personal use prohibited without express written permission from the author.