The law of symmetry is one of the principles most used by humans to perceive elements of reality. In general terms, people tend to see objects, situations, images and people based on previous data they have about reality. This can be denoted in areas of daily life, such as advertisements in which the application of this postulate is evident. Likewise, the Gestalt movement places special emphasis on the forms that are visible to the human eye and the meaning that they acquire. For this reason, it is worth carrying out a review of this topic in order to have more data that can provide some clarity.
In this Psychology-Online article we will explain what is the Gestalt law of symmetry and examples.
What is the Gestalt law of symmetry
The law of symmetry postulates that visually perceived images can be appreciated under the same form. In other words, the way the brain processes external information makes it possible for two objects and/or images to be seen as identical.
From this, it is about producing a simplification of the figures so that perception is as simple as possible. In turn, symmetry responds to the fact that the visual elements have a notable similarity that allows a spatial organization of the figure being visualized.
Although the law of symmetry corresponds to establishing a direct relationship between two or more images, it is worth mentioning that perception is only possible if the person has previous data that allows greater understanding. Here the previous experiences of the human being that were acquired in a specific context play a transcendental role.
What is the Gestalt law of symmetry for?
The mental schemes that a human being has allow certain images and objects of everyday life to be perceived in an understandable and forceful way. To provide precision about this, we will explain what the Gestalt law of symmetry is for:
- Order: Appreciating two or more elements in an identical way provides a mental order regarding the information available. In turn, the order accounts for an understanding of the image according to the previous data that a person has.
- Composition: Viewing elements as similar maintains a visual composition that is not easily altered.
- Information processing: The use of this principle allows the brain to not have to make an extreme effort to understand the meaning of the visual aspects that are shown.
In the following article we explain to you.
Image: Toptal
How to use the Gestalt law of symmetry
The usefulness of this postulate has some nuances that give it an entity in various areas of reality. Next, we will explain how the Gestalt law of symmetry is used:
Art
To carry out the composition of an artistic product such as a photography, an advertising logo or another element, the application of this principle is important. In global terms, we try to create an attractive product for the viewer’s vision.
biology
The evolution of the human being can be explained from genetic reproduction, which lies in establishing conditions of equality. This can be seen in the genetic duplication of certain cells that are found within the human organism.
Advertising
The perception of the visual elements that make up an advertisement is emphasized in the way they are organized. To do this, advertising determines that certain objects may be similar to each other to generate a feeling of inner harmony.
The law of symmetry can be applied through advertising logos, a slogan or advertisements that appear in media such as social networks or television. The purpose of this condition lies in producing interest in the customer to purchase a product that is for sale.
Everyday examples of the Gestalt law of symmetry
In order to establish a greater understanding of this topic, it is important to think about the application of this theoretical aspect in life. For this reason, below we will mention some everyday examples of the Gestalt law of symmetry:
- Example 1: A food brand decides to carry out an advertising campaign with its main products to capture the public’s interest. To carry out this idea, photos are taken of foods such as hamburgers and fries. Although the composition of both meals may have very subtle differences, the mind tends to organize visual information in a symmetrical way to perceive the elements in an orderly way.
- Example 2: A person buys a box of screws to do work around his house. Generally, items may have variations in shapes and sizes. However, the brain usually groups each visual aspect by symmetry, resulting in identical screws.
Do you want to know other Gestalt laws? In this article we explain to you.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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Bibliography
- López Ortiz, RH (2016). Analysis of the Gestalt laws and their application in teaching materials for early education children II. Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, Esmeraldas Campus, Faculty of Administrative and Accounting Sciences.