Short answer
When using geometric terminology or forms with historical scientific associations in esoteric or symbolic design, consider whether the intent is to evoke scientism, historical authenticity, or purely abstract symbolism, and how this choice will be perceived.
- Field
- Classic Design
- Source
- Journal of Religious History (2015)
- Method
- Historical and discourse analysis
- Evidence
- Moderate effect
The use of geometric terms in esoteric design discourse often stems from historical appropriations of scientific language, which, while initially scientistic, may now function as symbolic or metaphorical elements. This classic design research insight is drawn from a 2015 study published in Journal of Religious History. Using Historical and discourse analysis, researchers explored how this design variable affects real-world outcomes. The key design takeaway: When using geometric terminology or forms with historical scientific associations in esoteric or symbolic design, consider whether the intent is to evoke scientism, historical authenticity, or purely abstract symbolism, and how this choice will be perceived.
Geometric Analogies in Esoteric Design: A Vestigial Scientism
The use of geometric terms in esoteric design discourse often stems from historical appropriations of scientific language, which, while initially scientistic, may now function as symbolic or metaphorical elements.
Journal of Religious History · 2015
Key Findings
- 01The appropriation of geometric terminology in esoteric discourse is not always a case of 'terminological scientism' but can be a decontextualized modern use of antique terms.
- 02While some geometric terms originated with scientistic intent (e.g., Swedenborg's use of anatomical terms), their modern application often strips them of this rationale, leaving a vestigial symbolic function.
- 03Dimensional terminology, in particular, consistently exemplifies terminological scientism from its initial formulation through broader applications.
Application
Design takeaway
When using geometric terminology or forms with historical scientific associations in esoteric or symbolic design, consider whether the intent is to evoke scientism, historical authenticity, or purely abstract symbolism, and how this choice will be perceived.
How to apply
When designing for niche communities or incorporating historical symbolism, research the etymology and historical context of the visual language and terminology being used.
Project actions
- 01When choosing a theme for your design project, consider the historical context of the symbols or language you plan to use.
- 02If your design incorporates scientific or mathematical concepts, explore their historical evolution and how they have been reinterpreted.
Method & Evidence
Variables
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- +Provides a nuanced analysis of terminology evolution.
- +Distinguishes between genuine scientism and symbolic appropriation.
Limitations
The specific esoteric discourses studied might not cover all possible applications of geometric terminology in design.
Reliability & validity
The study's validity relies on rigorous historical textual analysis and discourse interpretation. Reliability would depend on the consistency of applying the definition of 'terminological scientism' across different examples.
Think critically
To what extent does the 'vestigial scientism' of geometric terms in esoteric design influence user perception, and could this be leveraged or mitigated through design choices?
Design Principles
"Historical terminology in design should be critically examined for its original intent and its evolved meaning to ensure appropriate and effective communication."
Understanding the historical roots of terminology in design can reveal deeper layers of meaning and intent. This insight is crucial for designers working with symbolic systems or historical aesthetics, allowing for more informed and nuanced design choices.
What This Means for Your Design
Sometimes, when designers use fancy math words like 'dimensions' in their designs, they're copying how scientists used those words a long time ago. But now, those words might just mean something cool or symbolic, not necessarily scientific.
How to use in your project
- 1.Reference this research when discussing the historical or symbolic meaning of geometric forms or terminology used in your design project.
Add to My Project
Quick Cite
Paragraph starter
The use of geometric terminology in design, as explored by Plaisance (2015), highlights how terms initially rooted in scientific discourse can be appropriated and evolve into symbolic or metaphorical elements within different contexts. This research suggests that designers should critically examine the historical origins and contemporary interpretations of the visual and linguistic elements they employ to ensure their intended meaning is effectively communicated.
Source
Journal of Religious History
Occult Spheres, Planes, and Dimensions: Geometric Terminology and Analogy in Modern Esoteric Discourse
journal · 2015
View sourceQuestions About This Research
- What does the research say about geometric analogies in esoteric design: a vestigial scientism?
- When using geometric terminology or forms with historical scientific associations in esoteric or symbolic design, consider whether the intent is to evoke scientism, historical authenticity, or purely abstract symbolism, and how this choice will be perceived. Evidence: Journal of Religious History (2015).
- Why does "Geometric Analogies in Esoteric Design: A Vestigial Scientism" matter for design?
- Understanding the historical roots of terminology in design can reveal deeper layers of meaning and intent. This insight is crucial for designers working with symbolic systems or historical aesthetics, allowing for more informed and nuanced design choices.
- How can designers apply this research?
- When using geometric terminology or forms with historical scientific associations in esoteric or symbolic design, consider whether the intent is to evoke scientism, historical authenticity, or purely abstract symbolism, and how this choice will be perceived.
- What were the main findings?
- The appropriation of geometric terminology in esoteric discourse is not always a case of 'terminological scientism' but can be a decontextualized modern use of antique terms.. While some geometric terms originated with scientistic intent (e.g., Swedenborg's use of anatomical terms), their modern application often strips them of this rationale, leaving a vestigial symbolic function.. Dimensional terminology, in particular, consistently exemplifies terminological scientism from its initial formulation through broader applications.
- What research method was used?
- Historical and discourse analysis.
- How strong is the evidence?
- Evidence strength is rated Moderate effect, based on a 2015 journal from Journal of Religious History.
- What should I do differently in my next project?
- When designing for niche communities or incorporating historical symbolism, research the etymology and historical context of the visual language and terminology being used.
- What are the limitations?
- The study focuses on specific esoteric discourses and may not represent all uses of geometric terminology in design.