Exaggeration — a problem of perception and design
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“Exaggeration” is when something is said or done in a way that makes it seem bigger. It can happen in many ways, such as in art, literature or behavior, for different purposes, such as humor, emphasis, persuasion, or manipulation. It can be good or bad, depending on the situation or purpose. People can overstate things, like the severity of a situation or the effect of a policy, leading to misunderstandings. People who exaggerate or lie lose credibility and trust, and seem to lack honesty. Exaggerating differences can lead to conflict, which in turn leads to more polarization. People fail to act or use the wrong resources when they focus on problems that are too big or too small. If someone says they are better than they are, it can hurt their reputation. Exaggeration should be handled with care.
However, it can have positive effects, depending on the context and intention. For example, when comedic exaggeration creates a ridiculous situation. It can be used to highlight a point or argument, making it memorable or impactful. In art and literature, it can create fantastic worlds that inspire imagination and new possibilities. Exaggeration can be used to advertise a product or service better to potential customers. It can also inspire people to achieve great goals. Exaggeration can be good, but it requires wisdom.
It is a big issue in the design process, as well as in other areas of decision-making and problem-solving. Overpromising or setting unrealistic goals for a project can lead to disappointment, frustration, and loss of trust. When claims are too big, the project gets confused and worse. We often spend time and money on parts that aren’t relevant instead of focusing on the essential parts of the project. This leads to delays, cost overruns, and a lower-quality final product. Everyone needs to be careful about the risks of overestimating. It is necessary to prioritize the most important parts of the project to ensure that its realization is efficient. Explicit decisions and problem-solving can be harder to make, with excess only causing more anxiety. In politics and the media, exaggeration can create panic or outrage, leading to hasty and wrong decisions. Overkill can lead to misunderstandings and conflict in a relationship. In marketing, it can create false expectations or distort product or service characteristics. We all want to avoid disappointment, frustration, and loss of trust. Misguided conclusions are hindered by the exaggeration of facts or the misinterpretation of academic research. In healthcare, people often worry too much about a condition or symptom, which increases healthcare costs and hurts patients.
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There is growing awareness of how the environment influences human behavior, emotions, and well-being. Perception of physical characteristics of the environment, such as the amount of natural light, the level of noise, and the availability of green spaces, can affect people’s mental health. Researchers have studied how social and cultural factors can affect mental health, such as the sense of community, the quality of social interactions, and the availability of urban services and amenities. Architects are trying to create environments for mental health and well-being, but this process can be harmed by unbalanced perceptions of the many factors involved in the integration of the built environment with the natural and imaginary environment. A critical analysis of the environment is necessary to create spaces that promote mental health and well-being.
Loconeurosis is a psychological stress associated with architecture, landscape, and urban design. Living in a polluted, noisy, or crowded area can make us feel stressed and anxious, while access to natural elements, nice communities, and pleasant surroundings with good urban services and amenities can improve our mood and help us relax. Environments that promote mental health and well-being can be created by incorporating green spaces, natural light, quiet areas, social connections, and a sense of community. On the other hand, an exaggerated approach to design decisions can disrupt this balance and create environments that are not conducive to mental health and well-being. Design decisions should be made in a balanced and harmonious way. By focusing on the delicate balance of the factors in the urban and cultural landscape, architects can create spaces that promote harmony and tranquility.
In conclusion, exaggeration can be a powerful tool or a dangerous trap. It’s important to be careful not to create conflicts, disappointments, and physical and psychological problems. The approach should always be balanced and integrated to promote well-being.
Check this text in Brazilian Portuguese: https://tiogegeca.medium.com/exagero-um-problema-de-percep%C3%A7%C3%A3o-e-de-projetos-7be7169ba25b
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Kindle Edition https://amzn.to/4bhMsrL Dive into the intricate relationship between design and meaning in this thought-provoking exploration. Perfect for anyone fascinated by how design shapes our experiences and interactions, this book challenges, inspires, and enlightens readers across disciplines. - Planning Philosophy: Philosophy Planning by R. B. Assunção (tiogegeca) Kindle Edition https://amzn.to/3WEX3sT Explore the interplay between philosophy and urban planning. This edition has been significantly revised and expanded, offering focused reflections on how planning philosophy and philosophy of planning shape our physical and social environments.
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