Patterns and Symmetry

Patterns are intrinsically symmetrical.

Ian Stewart has said that symmetry is the key to nature and cognition. If this is true, then there's some type of clue here (about what yet, I'm not exactly sure). If we search for symmetry, for balance, and we gravitate toward or look for repetition or sameness, (as one of the primary principles of Gestalt Perception), this offers us a sense of certainty. It enables us to predict 'what comes next'. Any irregularities we find in a pattern requires us to make adjustments in our understanding of the pattern field. We identify, adapt and learn. Humans are highly sensitized to irregularities. We notice 'what's different' far more easily and quickly than we can match up what is the same. We strive for sameness, continuity and closure (Gestalt Principles of Perception). This gives us certainty in 'knowing' about our world. Differences are disruptive and require adaptation and change. And this costs energy. Cognitive energy.