The Strange Power of Coincidence
What chance encounters reveal about the way our minds work
This edition of The Wonder Reader recommends stories to spark curiosity and delight. Coincidences may seem too perfect to be random, but a 2016 Atlantic article argues they reveal more about the mind than hidden order. Statistically, unlikely events happen frequently, giving rise to many potential overlaps. The special part of a coincidence is often our attention to it.
Our brains are wired to notice such instances, but recognizing this doesn't necessarily diminish their charm. Coincidences can remind us of the many connections possible in a life and the role our perceptions play.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
