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Similarity is a powerful thing

by Rick Baker
On Feb 15, 2011
Some studies have shown people tend to be attracted to other people when those other people hold similar views. Conversely, people tend to be repulsed by other people when those other people hold differing views.
 
This applies whether or not the matter at hand is important or not important.
 
As examples:
 
Important Matters would include topics like religion, politics, ethics, etc.
 
Not Important Matters [or, likely not so important matters] would include topics like favourite colours, music preferences, choice of clothing, etc.
 
Here is a picture of the Impact of Similarity
 
  If the Matter
Is
Important
If the Matter
Is Not
Important
When we Agree with the
Other Person's Opinion
We tend to be Attracted We tend to be Attracted
When we Do Not Agree with
the Other Person's Opinion
We tend to be Repulsed We tend to be Repulsed
 
The Impact of Similarity
 
These tendencies tied to Similarity are helpful pieces of knowledge.
  • They explain why misery enjoys company. [yes…a feeble attempt at similarity humour]
  • They support the logic of Stephen Covey’s 5th Habit – Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood. [no point running the risk of alienating people by illustrating our differences, especially if those differences are of little importance or are off topic]
  • They help us understand how and why first impressions are of such importance.
  • They help us understand how rapport gets built [and destroyed].
  • They help us understand the driving forces behind community.

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