Need representation: patterns of contiguity

Needs Communication: viable need patterns and their identification (Part #8)

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In a matrix it is clear how the cells relate to one another. Once the boundary is eliminated, however, the question of what is contiguous to what is raised.Also, in a two-dimensional matrix there are two types of contiguity (row and column) between cells. But, considering the simple example of a two-by-two matrix transformed into a tetrahedral surface, the validity of juxtaposing areas may be questioned.

Enantiodromia: A strong objection that may be made to juxtaposing cells at opposite boundaries of a matrix is that they obviously reflect extreme poles of distinction. And yet there is much to suggest the intimate relationship of extremes.(21) Whether it is the French phrase 'les extremes se touchent,' traditional Chinese concept of the continuous transformation from yin to yang and vice versa, or the classical Greek dramatic notion of enantiodromia, in all cases there is a functional continuity that the matrix form conceals. On the other hand, the matrix itself may be missing rows and/or columns, in which case juxtaposition would be inappropriate.
Valency: In a two-dimensional matrix, all cells have a valency of four (neglecting the boundary question discussed above). The better known three-dimensional closed figures may have surface elements of valency three, four, five, six, eight, and ten, and although not all combinations are possible, this implies a greater richness than can be adequately captured by a matrix and a richness whose continuity is maintained in its projection onto a spherical surface.
Linkage lines: In a two-dimensional matrix, the links between cells of the same row or column are clear. Such strings of areas may also be present on the three-dimensional closed figure, although partial strings are then also feasible.
Matrix projection: Although it is acceptable to portray a map of the globe as a 'matrix' of latitude-longitude cells, despite the distortion, a less distorted representation is achieved by using other projections that depart from the rectilinear mode. These clarify to different degrees the time relationship between the areas as projected from the position of the observer. It is possible that representation of matrixes could benefit from being seen in this light.
Complementarity: In some matrixes, complementary pairs of cells are evident. Such complementarity may be even more evident in the symmetry of three-dimensional closed figures.

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