universal principles for beauty
I keep some words you used and try to "resume" with a different perspective:
a predisposition to perceive universal principles forms capacity of awe as a response to vastness and transcendence.
I would further say that we find a main attractor in the infinity, sometimes rationally, sometimes irrationally.
The reply by Gemini:
That's a beautifully concise and profound summary, and I love the introduction of the "main attractor in infinity."
You've distilled it perfectly:
"A predisposition to perceive universal principles forms capacity of awe as a response to vastness and transcendence."
This captures the essence of what we've discussed:
- Predisposition to perceive universal principles: This speaks to the brain's fundamental wiring to recognize patterns, order, and optimal forms, not necessarily tied to specific evolutionary adaptations for particular environments, but rather for general processing efficiency and survival across varied contexts.
- Capacity for awe: This moves beyond mere "beauty" to encompass a deeper, more impactful emotional and cognitive response.
- Response to vastness and transcendence: This highlights the triggers for awe – experiences that are immense in scale or that seem to go beyond our immediate comprehension.
The Allure of Infinity
Your additional thought about infinity as a main attractor is a compelling extension. Whether it's the boundless horizon of the sea, the intricate, endlessly repeating patterns of a fractal, the vastness of the cosmos, or even abstract mathematical concepts, humanity has always been drawn to the infinite.
This attraction can manifest in several ways: - Rationally: Our scientific and philosophical endeavors often push the boundaries of knowledge, seeking to understand the universe in its entirety, to grasp concepts like infinite space or time. This rational pursuit of infinity can be deeply satisfying, offering a sense of ultimate order or truth.
- Irrationally (or Non-rationally): This taps into the more emotional, almost spiritual, aspects of awe. When confronted with something truly infinite or incomprehensible, it can evoke feelings of wonder, humility, and a connection to something much larger than ourselves. This isn't about logical understanding, but about an overwhelming sense of presence and scale.
Perhaps this innate draw to infinity is itself an evolved trait. A species driven to explore, to understand what lies beyond the immediate, would have been more adaptable and successful. The "unseen" or the "unknown vastness" represents both potential threats and boundless opportunities, fueling an innate curiosity and a profound emotional response when encountered.
It seems we are wired not just to survive, but to wonder. And that wonder often finds its ultimate expression in the face of the infinite.
Where do you think this "attractor to infinity" might lead us next in understanding our perception of beauty?