International projectionist (Oct 1931-Sept 1933)

22 INTERNATIONAL PROJECTIONIST December 1931 lllllllll .40 50 .57 .618 .67 .69 .75 .80 .83 1.00 Fig. 4. Rectangles used by Fechner to determine the most pleasing proportions they were obtained were well controlled — assumptions which appear well justified— the important information is lodged in the distribution curve that was obtained, in the average value and in the value of standard deviation or spreading out of the individual observations about that average. The observed average, .621, may be taken as an estimate of the true "best" proportion. With a possible error in the observed average of as much as ± .011 for a sample of 350 observations, such as were taken by Fechner, these results give evidence that the best proportion lies somewhere in the range of .610 to .632. From the standpoint of convenience in design and architecture, there is practical value in using the exact proportions of the golden section in many cases, but from the aesthetic point of view, mathematical accuracy is of no great importance. Human preferences are not so exacting. It does appear definitely true, however, that most people prefer an asymmetrical figure to a purely symmetrical one. A square with its perfect symmetry is almost always uninspiring and often disagreeable. The usual demand is for greater variety, for something that will awaken interest. The amount of variety in a rectangle that is considered pleasing depends upon the individual's grade of intelligence, his experience and his tastes. Just why we desire a proportion approximating the golden section is somewhat speculative. Psychologists speak of the pleasure derived from adjustment of the human organism to meet complex o2 uja. RATIO OF SHORT TO LONG SIDE OF RECTANGLE Fig. 5. Results of Fechner's experiments to determine the most pleasing proportions of a rectangle GOLDEN__ RATIO ~* . I 1 1 1 situations. In line with this thought, Langfield, author of "The Aesthetic Attitude," believes that the "complexity" or inequality represented by the golden section taxes the adjustment of the ordinary organism to its limit." If we add content to a rectangle, as we do when plotting curves in a rectangular graphical chart, the problem is made somewhat more complex. We are no longer regarding the rectangle simply as a shape. If, for example, we draw a vertical or a horizontal line inside a rectangle as in Figure 6, the effect is to change the apparent proportions of the rectangle. This would tend to dictate a different ratio of height to length than, one would choose otherwise. Generally speaking, however, the content of a graphical chart does not exert an influence so strong as to modify materially what might be considered the best proportions. Fig. 6. The apparent shape of a rectangle is affected by its content Canavan's Resignation Follows Defeat of Rebate Plan WILLIAM F. CANAVAN'S resignation as President of the International Alliance was tendered to and accepted by the General Executive Board of the I. A. at a special meeting of the Board at organization headquarters on December 9th. Previous to the filing and acceptance of Canavan's resignation, the Board had met to consider the outcome of the vote on the general wage reduction proposal made by the Board at an earlier meeting. A tabulation of this vote submitted to the Board showed the following results: 364 locals voted "No"; 140 locals voted "Yes"; 72 locals were not affected; and 1 tie — making a total of 577 locals the votes of which had been received at headquarters at the time of the Board meeting. During the discussion which followed the announcement of the locals' vote it was suggested that a special convention be called to allow representatives of the major circuits to appear before a committee of 100 and explain the necessity of the rebate plan. This plan was vetoed by the Board, which considered that the vote by the locals showed definitely how they stood on the rebate and indicated the futility of further action along this line. Following the defeat of this proposal, Canavan submitted his resignation. Every member of the Board prevailed upon the President to continue in office until the next Convention at least; but Canavan refused to reconsider his decision to resign. Announcement of Canavan's resigna Latest Bull-etin An excerpt from a current advertisement of a television book: . . . It is a book both for the interested layman and for the craftsman who will shortly depend on television operation for his livelihood. It has been written especially for the motion picture projectionist who will unquestionably operate television in the theatre as he now does sound equipment. tion, and the subsequent election of W^ C. Elliott, heretofore first vice-president> as president was made in a telegram which was sent to all locals on December 9th. Two days later President Elliott, in a general letter to all locals, reviewed the sessions of the Executive Board and confirmed the acceptance of Canavan's resignation. Elliott's letter stated that the Executive Board was very reluctant to accept Canavan's resignation and did so only when it became evident that Canavan would not change his mind. Elliott further pledged that he personally and the members of the Executive Board would do everything possible ta promote the interests not only of each Local unit but also of every individual member. An extension of these remarks anent future policy is expected to be forthcoming shortly after the first of the year. Elliott spent the holidays at his home in Cincinnati. Although Canavan has indicated his intention of returning to his former home in St. Louis on or about February 15th, there are many conflicting reports abroad as to his plans for the future. Canavan has disclaimed any intention of participating further in labor work, either for organized unions or for employers.