Love in 36 questions: KTAR puts soul mate theory to test

PHOENIX — For decades, psychologists have tried to help people fall in love.

More than 20 years ago Dr. Arthur Aron succeeded — or so he thought.

His process consisted of two strangers asking each other 36 questions, each more personal than the last. After both people answered all 36 questions, they then stare each other in the eyes for four minutes.

The concept behind the experiment is establishing mutual vulnerability between the pair, which Aron theorized is the basis for love.

We had our reporter, Cooper Rummell, put Aron’s theory to the test on a blind date.

We’ll give you the first round of questions to help you on your way, but you’ll have to head to the New York Times for the rest.

1. Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest?

2. Would you like to be famous? In what way?

3. Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

4. What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?

5. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?

6. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

7. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?

8. Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common.

9. For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

10. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

11. Take four minutes and tell your partner your life story in as much detail as possible.

12. If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?