people interfere with each other like waves

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Categories: Comparisons

An example of an analogy that uses a scientific concept as an analogy for an everyday experience:

"What resonance and interference show us is that synchronicity is what really makes the difference in nature. Being 'in phase' is often more impactful than being incredibly powerful. The same is true of human personalities and how they work together – or don't. If you've ever said about a new friend or love interest that 'We just clicked', then you know what constructive interference feels like on a human level: a relationship that is so much more fun, energising and life-giving because two personalities lift each other to a level that neither could reach unassisted. On the other hand, you have probably also experienced the opposite – when someone who is not in sync with you actually seems to drain your energy and enjoyment. Just as annoying noise can be 'cancelled' to equilibrium by another, out-of-phase[,] wave, our spirit and personality can be neutralised by the wrong kind of people in our lives. These destructive interferers tire us out, make us feel bad about ourselves and make it impossible to enjoy anything."

Dr Camilla Pang

Pang, C. (2020). Explaining Humans. What science can teach us about life, love and relationships. Viking.

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Author: Keith

Former school and college science teacher, teacher educator, research supervisor, and research methods lecturer. Emeritus Professor of Science Education at the University of Cambridge.