How the diagram works: “Car driver’s Dilemma”
The seven stages, degrees of freedom or dimensions, of the diagram form a dynamic chain that describes the emergence of meaning:
SOI (Object): The gas pump and the price increase. This is the objective “system of interest” to which the researcher (motorist) focuses his attention.
Sector & : The motorist sees the numbers on the screen. The sector limits attention to the wallet and the need to use the car
Circle (Visuality) The circle provides a degree of certainty: “This really costs this much.”
Symbol & Semantics (MOI): Here the leap to semantics occurs. A number is not just a number, but a symbol of reduced accessibility.
Semantics (interaction) arises when the motorist considers: “What does this mean for my freedom to move?” This is the point where MOI surpasses mere SOI.
System (Language of Thought): The motorist begins to build a systemic model: “If the price is X, and my income is Y, I have to give up things Z.” This is abstraction.
Insight & Visions: The end result is a new vision or decision, for example switching to an electric car or using public transportation.