In sum, the things that we want will be perceived as relatively closer and more obtainable and energize action geared towards their acquisition. This perhaps explains why that cute bartender you’ve been eyeing recently appears to lean in tantalizingly close when pouring your drink. But beware of how your eyes may deceive you. Though you may desire the barkeep’s affections, those dexterous hands may be farther away than you think. What appears to be within reach might, in fact, not be so. Indeed, these findings suggest that Morrissey’s musings on the effects of unrequited love need revision. While he may be right that the “the more you ignore me, the closer I get”, it may be equally true that the more you ignore me, the closer you get.

Are you a scientist? Have you recently read a peer-reviewed paper that you want to write about? Then contact Mind Matters co-editor Gareth Cook, a Pulitzer prize–winning journalist at the Boston Globe, where he edits the Sunday Ideas section. He can be reached at garethideas AT gmail.com

3 Comments

1. 1. jgrosay 08:15 AM 6/17/10

   This sounds to me like the Zenon of Elea paradox on the speedy Achille never reaching the slow turtle. Matematicians can't reach it, but engineers can get close enough. Salud +

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2. 2. mindcoach 01:26 PM 6/17/10

   This is fascinating! Especially “The closer an object appears, the more obtainable it seems. The more obtainable it seems, the more likely we are to go for it.” So, if we can stay in state that aligns with our desires we’ll be motivated to go after it ‘cause it is perceived to be obtainable. This is great news for my clients! You just made my day!

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3. 3. besthiker 11:23 AM 6/18/10

   I have noticed that hills appeared bigger just after knee surgery. Also, I notice that when I look at playgrounds and pools, they had looked enormous when my kids were little but now that my kids are older, they appear much smaller. I must have perceived the objects as through my kids eyes. But, I didn't know I was doing it at the time at all.

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