Photo from KBOI2.com July 27, 2012
Much speculation has been done about why Pinterest has been such an overnight success. It is my belief that Pinterest is a winner because we can instantly process information in visual format. If I see a picture I like, my brain gives me instant gratification. Conversely, if I see a picture I don’t like, my brain goes into action. Two such pictures came to my attention yesterday.
The picture above came to my attention via Twitter: @mouselink: Does this billboard comparing Obama to the theater shooter go too far? mslnk.bz/PXQcCg
I don’t like the picture for a variety of reasons. I tried several times to explain why, but each explanation sounded like a sermon or a political tirade. Then I remembered the whole reason for my post was to talk about visual information. I am using this picture as an example.
Another picture that came to my attention when I clicked a link gave me “instant visual information” that was incorrect. The New York Times title of the picture gives the correct information: “Spain’s Jobless Rely on Family, a Frail Crutch.”
Photo by Carlos Lujan for The New York Times
My visual information saw the elderly lady as being the one who had moved in with family and become a burden. Then I read the story and learned that the elderly couple were supporting their grown children and grown grandchildren.
Conclusion: I will enjoy all the visual information that gives me instant gratification. I will slow down and evaluate those pictures that ring alarms in my brain. “Seeing is believing” may not be totally true. “Eye witnesses” may not be totally reliable. Bottom line, it’s OK to do a double take and question my reactions.
What do you think?
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Diane Brogan