The röle of contrast in emergency

The Role of Contrast in Emergency
by Ali Riza SARAL

According to Collins' Dictionary
"A contrast is a great difference between two or more things
which is clear when you compare them".


A contrast is a form of perception.  Contrast is the effect of change
in our perception.  If this change takes a short span of time or
space  in proportion to its size we perceive it as a contrast.

A lightening produce sudden and strong light in darkness.  A sudden shout of
dispair contrasts with previous grief mood.  In fact, contrast has various
uses in our lives.  You can witness the artful use of contrast in Verdi's
Requiem.  Verdi is a master of managing contrast skillfully in his many works.

He uses contrast to help mourning of the audience. He does not use contrast
continuously.  He settles down calmness after a periof contrasting elements.
This helps the perception of the audience to return to normal.  Then suddenly,
in a few seconds he blasts out the highest loudness.

We perceive emotionally and cognitively.  Emotional processing is faster than
cognitive.  A sudden contrast triggers emotions first. Once emotions take control
they trigger themselves recursively.  Automatic processes which are learned in
trainings previously do not have time to work.

In an emergency situation where there is probably large contrasts it is vital
to react calmly so that automatic processes and further cognitive approach
take over control.

Being able to react quickly in emergency depends on 'salience'.  Contrast
increases salience also.  The health of salience developed and maintained by
a pilot, operator, controller may need to be pondered upon.  What type
of a controller are you? reactive, patient, emotional, logical???

Ali Riza SARAL