If you've read anything I've written, you know I love a good analogy! But I really appreciate this: " describe the analogy clearly and in sufficient detail and let the reader create their own mental image of the analogy. The reader needs to process what they read and construct the mental image. A ready-made image may shortcut some of these learning processes."
I also recall the first time I heard the wormhole/paper fold analogy. I knew right away that it wasn't exactly right, but it made wrapping my mind around the concept much easier, and allowed for much more nuanced understanding to develop over time.
Thanks Andrew (and yes, I do read your writing!) it’s similar to the distinction between reading a book or watching the film (movie) of the book. Reading allows you to create your own version but (strongly) guided by the author.
As you can guess, I’ll be writing again about analogies on this substack! The concept that analogies are never perfect and will “break” at some point if you dive too deep is one I’ll explore further.
If you've read anything I've written, you know I love a good analogy! But I really appreciate this: " describe the analogy clearly and in sufficient detail and let the reader create their own mental image of the analogy. The reader needs to process what they read and construct the mental image. A ready-made image may shortcut some of these learning processes."
I also recall the first time I heard the wormhole/paper fold analogy. I knew right away that it wasn't exactly right, but it made wrapping my mind around the concept much easier, and allowed for much more nuanced understanding to develop over time.
Thanks Andrew (and yes, I do read your writing!) it’s similar to the distinction between reading a book or watching the film (movie) of the book. Reading allows you to create your own version but (strongly) guided by the author.
I like it. This gives me ideas for my own stuff. Thanks, Stephen!
As you can guess, I’ll be writing again about analogies on this substack! The concept that analogies are never perfect and will “break” at some point if you dive too deep is one I’ll explore further.