We observe the world around us and learn its structure by
abstracting cause and effect, and by documenting recurring
solutions obtained under different conditions. Such empirical
rules, representing regularities of behavior, are called
"patterns." Visual patterns are the simplest expression of the
pattern concept (Salingaros, 1999). Many patterns are hard-wired
into our mind: we inherit actions and reactions that guarantee our
survival. Other patterns have to be learned, and form an
artificial extension of the human mind. The ability to observe
patterns gives us the human advantage of both adapting to, and
changing our environment. Of course, the complexity enveloping a
pattern in each specific setting has to be partially cleared so as
to get at its basic mechanism.
The language of a group of patterns forms the groundwork for
any discipline. Learned pattern languages -- not intrinsic to the
human mind -- were carefully preserved in the past. Many patterns
of human relations are codified into religions, myths, and
literary epics. A collective intelligence develops from pooling
discoveries accumulated over generations. This process is entirely
general. The sciences rely on mathematics for the ability to
organize data and explain phenomena by means of regularities, or
logical patterns (Steen, 1988). Breakthroughs occur when patterns
in one area link to patterns in other areas.
