First Blog

  Problem Solving - Finding Gaps 12/28/2024 Introduction. Solving complex problems often arises from the presence of gaps in knowledge, resources, understanding, or perspectives. These gaps introduce uncertainty, ambiguity, or constraints, making solutions difficult to achieve. Below, we explore the primary types of gaps that complicate problem-solving and their implications. Many are of the technical, informational, theoretical, and social nature. You may discover some of these gaps are also sources of uncertainty in problem-solving, in that they supply us with another list of things that can go wrong based on something missing. Gaps also form a type of impossible problem, that will be discussed in a later chapter. Finally, this essay is about all problems and solutions, not just those of science. Contents Comprehension Gaps Consistency Gaps Solution-Type Gaps Invisible Gaps   Knowledge and Evidence Gaps   Methodological and Technological Gaps Ethical and Cult...

Public speakers can generally be categorized into two groups: Type A and Type B. Type A speakers, which include most of us, formulate thoughts through introspection, utilizing the frontal lobe of the brain, before converting these thoughts into speech via the Broca's area. Contrastingly, Type B speakers, like Congressman Crockett (D-TX), engage in a different process where speech itself generates thought. For these individuals, the Broca's area is where thought begins as speech, which then migrates to the frontal lobe. This isn't a deficiency but rather a unique cognitive talent, though not necessarily linked to deep thinking. Type B speakers are often characterized by their verbosity rather than the depth of their thought. Over the years, we've encountered numerous Type B personalities, notably among preachers, politicians, talk show hosts, sportscasters, and those friends who seem to never stop talking. A classic example is Fidel Castro, known for marathon speeches th...

  You may have an extraordinary mind, but are locked into a situation where you can use it only one way. Is this you? Does this resonate?

  Explain the differences between inductive, deductive, analogical, and abductive arguments. Inductive Reasoning Inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to a general conclusion. It involves collecting data, recognizing patterns, and forming a hypothesis based on those patterns. Deductive Reasoning Deductive reasoning moves from general premises to a specific conclusion. It involves starting with a general principle and applying it to a specific case. It is the age-old classic method of critical thinking. Analogical Reasoning Analogical reasoning involves making comparisons between two things and drawing inferences based on their similarities. It identifies similarities between two things and suggests that they are likely to be similar in other ways. It is used most often to explain new and difficult concepts by relating them to something else, different but similar in structure. Abductive Rea...

Learning from a book or notes should be viewed as using a crutch - the ultimate aim is to internalize the knowledge so thoroughly that you no longer need these aids. Your goal is to become a new container of the information. To achieve this, understanding your personal learning style is crucial, as organization methods vary from person to person. Here are some general, foundational tips: Remember, You Forget : Regular review of material is essential because forgetting is part of the learning process. True Knowledge : You only truly know something when you understand every detail and it all makes sense within your mind. Understanding vs. Acceptance : After studying, ask yourself if you understand the material or if you're merely accepting it at face value. Understanding leads to learning and retention; acceptance does not. Optimal Learning Times : Schedule your learning during times when you are most receptive, avoiding periods when you're tired, distracted, stressed, or depress...

  Uncertainty is Certain G. Donald Allen 12/12/2024 1.       Introduction . This short essay is about uncertainty in people from both secular and nonsecular viewpoints. One point that will emerge is that randomly based uncertainty can be a driver for religious structure. Many groups facing uncertainty about their future are deeply religious or rely on faith as a source of comfort, resilience, and guidance. The intersection of uncertainty and religiosity often stems from the human need to find meaning, hope, and stability in the face of unpredictable or challenging circumstances. We first take up the connections of uncertainty to religion for the first real profession, farming, noting that hunting has many similar uncertainties. Below are groups that commonly lean on religious beliefs amidst uncertainty.   This short essay is a follow-up to a previous piece on certainty (https://used-ideas.blogspot.com/2024/12/certainty-is-also-emotion.html). U...