Note 9 - Asymmetrical and Symmetrical Relationships



 

Again when opposite poles are separated and the interpretation of experience based on isolated reference frames, relationships will tend to be asymmetrical and unambiguous.

As we have already seen, one good example of this is provided by holarchies e.g. the atom is included in the molecule which is included in the cell, which is included in the organism etc.

However the most common examples are provided by (local) cause and effect relationships (as in science).

When we attempt to combine polar reference frames - that are initially defined in isolated fashion - considerable confusion results, leading to a reduced notion of integration (that really reflects multi-differentiation).

True integration is based on the simultaneous interpretation of complementary reference frames.
Thus like two drivers, considered in relation to each other, the direction of movement is entirely relative. What is forward - from the persepctive of one reference frame - is backward from the perspective of the other.

So true integration leads to a dynamic interpretation of relationships that is circular and symmetric.

So to preserve the differentiated and integrated aspect of experience in proper balance, we must define all relationships in both a (linear) asymmetrical and (circular) symmetrical fashion.