Architecture

Socionics may be used to describe and characterize architecture. This approach might be new and subject to dispute, so different approaches will be discussed here.

An images and socionics page has been started at Wikisocion that explores the links between socionics and visual art (including architecture).

Theory

From a classical socionics perspective, any thing, situation, or phenomena contains information about itself that is perceived differentially by people. Using the language of Aushra Augusta, we might break down information about an architectural structure roughly as follows:

•  : the structure's potential and capabilities; the central idea or purpose of the structure
•  : the evolution and lifespan of the structure; a sense of meaning or meaninglessness produced by the structure in the viewer
•  : the structure's shape, form, and appearance; the sensory impact of the structure
•  : the sensations produced by the structure; whether it is comfortable or uncomfortable, harmonious or dissonant
•  : the utility, functionality, and rationale of the structure; whether it does its job
•  : what rules or systems it reflects; what class of structure it belongs to
•  : the expressiveness of the structure; what kinds of emotions or state it is projecting
•  : feelings of like / friendliness or dislike / unfriendliness produced by the structure in the viewer

Note that introverted information aspects require a certain "internal weighing" of the structure against some internal parameters, while extraverted aspects focus on the traits of the structure itself, with little reference to the observer's internal attitudes.

Clearly, different things may be done with architectural structures to convey more or less of individual information aspects. For instance, a building might be designed to present a simplistic -impression — with a bland exterior and as few details as possible that would "catch the eye" — while conveying plenty of -impressions, which might include portals for trucks to drive up and deliver goods, ventilation tubes, and so forth.

How information aspects are conveyed in architectural structures

Each of the information aspects (as listed above) is conveyed through fairly specific construction styles and decorative elements. Here are some possible means used to convey information of different kinds:

Note: these are hypotheses!

•  : something novel about the structure that makes you try to figure out its intent or purpose or marvel at its uniqueness or capabilities
•  : use of features that suggest a certain age or era of the building; use of elements that suggest some kind of unobvious symbolism
•  : bold colors and forms; bold, thick protrusions and shapes; solid, stocky, massive forms; oversizing certain parts of the structure
•  : soft, natural, "cozy" colors and forms that generate connotations with nature or with a comfortable home or inviting habitat
•  : prominent positioning of unmasked functional elements such as doors, input/output ports, moving parts, utility mains, etc.
•  : repetitive identical features (especially geometric) and uniformity of style and form that speak of a system behind the construction
•  : use of striking and stimulating, yet non-functional embellishments such as a grinning pink crocodile, spikes on the roof, etc.
•  : use of elements of traditional or national culture that arouse feelings of affinity and closeness; something endearing about the structure

Challenges

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Criticism

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