Relationships and Algorithms
Many dating sites use mathematical algorithms to match people. And charge a lot of money for this service.However, according to an article I recently read in the Washington Post, they are no better than random choice.
Why? Because they match basically on personality.
But studies have shown that people of similar personalities in long term relationships only make up 0.5% of the total, so basing a match on similar personalities is doomed to failure.
Relationship success basically depends on three things:
1. Individual characteristics - like whether you’re smart or what kinds of hang-ups you have around relationships
2. Quality of interaction - how you hit it off in-person;
3. Surrounding circumstances — stuff like your race or health or financial status.
(Finkel et al)
I was watching a series recently called Married at First Sight, where couples are matched scientifically by a panel.
4 couples were matched. They met for the first time at the altar. One couple had an obvious instant attraction to each other. All couples liked each other. They were well matched.
Fast forward 6 months. The only couple still together was the one who were instantly attracted to each other. The rest liked each other as friends only.
Maths and science can do so much, but nothing can account for that 'je ne sais quoi' or chemistry between people