Symmetry is an important principle recurring throughout nature, including social
interactions. The word is derived from the Greek root symmetria meaning “common measure”. The concept extends to
include harmony, balance, pleasing proportions, rhythm, harmony, and equilibrium. Symmetry is often related
to beauty, truth, and good which represent positive
values in the arts, sciences, and ethics respectively. Several emotions and other social
interactions are attempts to attain or restore
symmetry or its opposite, asymmetry.
- Apparent Balance
The Greeks interpreted the word as the harmony of the different parts
of an object, including good proportions between its constituent parts. Later
this meaning was transferred to include the rhythm of poems, of music,
and even the cosmos. Harmony, proportion, balance,
and equilibrium are also close synonyms. A lack of symmetry is described as
Asymmetrical balance refers to a kind of balance that does not rely
This occurs in art and design when several smaller items on one
side are balanced by a large item on the other side, or smaller items are placed
further away from the center than larger items. It is the basis of fair
commercial exchange where goods are exchanged for an equivalent amount money. It
allows for an apology to be accepted as fair
exchange for a tangible loss.
Symmetry in Social Interactions
We observe the symmetrical nature, often including asymmetrical balance, of social interactions in a variety of
contexts. These include reciprocity,
respect, justice, and revenge. The
architecture for interaction classifies behavior according to its symmetry.
Symmetrical interactions send the message “we are all the same” while
asymmetrical interactions send the message “I am special; better than you”. Peer
relationships are based on symmetry, power relationships are based on asymmetry.
The mutual exchange of reciprocity is based on
the principle of symmetry interpreted as fair exchange. We are fascinated by
keeping account of helpful and hurtful actions; including our own and those of
others. We constantly appraise the balance in each account as they accumulate
the value of our social exchanges with acquaintances. A simple test for symmetry
in exchange is to ask: “would you be willing to swap places” if the exchange is
symmetrical, it is a fair deal viewed from either side.
When we appreciate another's situation and point of view, we recognize the
similarities we share as humans. The golden rule expresses the importance of
maintaining symmetry and balance as we encounter others.
Empathy is attaining a point of view that emphasizes the symmetry between the self and
the other. Empathy creates mutual
relationships where each action benefits everyone in the relationship.
The Golden Rule
The golden rule: “Treat others as you want to
be treated” is a direct appeal for symmetry in relationships. It expresses the
importance of reciprocity and empathy.
An effective apology may be accepted when a
tangible loss cannot be undone. A asymmetrical balance is established where the
remorse of the offender offsets the loss suffered by the injured person.
Reparations may also be required to help strike a closer balance.
Dialogue is the symmetrical exchange of ideas between
peers. Other forms of communication are asymmetrical.
When we treat others as we expect to be treated, we are creating a
symmetrical relationship. Respect is recognizing the
symmetry of this human connection.
Fair treatment under the law is an important justice principle. This
acknowledges the balance of fair exchange and the goal of evenhanded treatment of
people under the law. “Fairness” is often
used as a synonym for justice. A balance symbolizes the “Scales of Justice”.
Power, defined by asymmetry, breeds injustice.
Anger is an urgent plea for justice and action. Injustice, imbalance, and unfair
treatment often trigger anger.
Revenge is an attempt to settle the score and restore balance.
Revenge is the destructive side of reciprocity.
“Getting even”—the battle cry of
revenge—is a direct plea for inflicting symmetrical injury, harm, or losses.
Asymmetry in Social Interactions
Asymmetry is the lack of symmetry and balance. It is unbalanced, uneven, unequal,
inequitable, lopsided, or one-sided. It is apparent in hierarchies, forms the basis of
power, the fuel for hate, and the
fundamental asymmetry of the first-person viewpoint
contributes to humiliation,
envy, jealousy, and
Hierarchies are fundamentally asymmetrical. The boss oversees the work of
several workers, the teacher has many students, and the doctor's waiting room is
full of patients. Hierarchies establish and distribute power.
Asymmetry is the defining attribute of power. The
strong are not the weak. The boss is expected to show anger and the workers are
expected to submit, obey, and suppress its expression.
Seeing things from your own point of view is always
easier, and first-hand experiences seem more real, than understanding another's
point of view can ever be. This unique first-person experience creates a fundamental
asymmetry that contributes
to many of the other asymmetries described here. It also contributes to the
asymmetric character of egotism, narcissism, selfishness, greed, and the magnitude gap. Your
own point of view, the way you see things, is unique.
We have a great need for self-justification. The
golden rule and our empathy struggles to overcome this
Hate is based on emphasizing and exaggerating the differences between you and
your enemy. We are not like the evil other and must eliminate or destroy him. Bias refers to the imbalanced perceptions that lead to
Humiliation is the asymmetrical message “you are not as good as me”. Our
stature is not symmetrical. It depends on the
inherent asymmetries of injustice, disrespect, and power differentials.
Envy is an attempt to attain symmetrical (equivalent) stature, or
establish an asymmetry, with yourself on top.
Jealousy is the concern that “you love someone else more that you love me”.
It is the complaint that your love is not asymmetrical enough; I am not special
enough for you. Love
has to be clearly asymmetrical to avoid jealousy.
“You don't love me as much as I love you” expresses the asymmetry that
defines unrequited love.
The present is immediate, here and now. The future is abstract, distant, and
speculative. Immediate satisfaction appears more valuable than the promise of
future satisfaction. The possibility of preserving the earth for future
generations does not compare to the thrill of driving a big car now. Evaluating
immediate gain against a future benefit is inherently asymmetrical. Only a
strong advocate for future generations can overcome this inherent asymmetry.
Asymmetry is the essence of hypocrisy. It defines power
differentials and denies empathy. Treating others as
you refuse to be treated mocks the golden rule. Many other examples exist
including: “Do what I say, not what I do”, and the many instances where what is
good enough for you is not good enough for me.
The Website of Symmetry
Provided by György Darvas.