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FOFO – the Fear of Finding Out

1.      Introduction We propose a new psychological condition and acronym: FOFO – the Fear of Finding Out. This condition compels people to stick to their ideas and beliefs regardless of contrary evidence. They resist changing because of this fear. Though the acronym may be new, FOFO describes a genuine psychological pattern. It sits at the intersection of several established phenomena, though none capture the specific affective component (the fear) quite as precisely. Naturally, cognitive bias fits nicely within this framework, though not usually as a fear of discovery. FIFO is particularly dangerous when it shows up in problem-solving situations. 2.      The Architecture of FOFO This fear operates on multiple levels, including epistemic threat, identity entanglement, cost of conviction, and the ostrich effect. Additionally, it seriously affects problem-solving skills. In the following paragraphs, we describe these issues in general. My ...
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The Perils of Modern Education

The Perils of Modern Education Years ago, when I was in school, teachers faced a time-worn educational challenge. Though succinct and easy to state, it was often difficult to achieve. It still is. Children needed to develop the ability to: ·        Think critically. ·        Ask meaningful questions. ·        Explore and investigate. ·        Express their own ideas. ·        Solve problems independently. ·        Learn through interaction with teachers and peers. Education is the most powerful engine a human being can have. This list summarizes the key learning methods over the centuries. They have produced kings, generals, engineers, inventors, accountants, and professors. Notice there is no mention of technology. Yet, technology is most important in modern times. So, we should add a new method. ·  ...
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Professional Tennis

 I do wonder whether pro tennis players know that smashing their rackets on the court creates micro-cracks that definitely affect the racket performance. Probably best to destroy it completely. (Of course they get fined for that.)
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New Major at Arizona State

 Arizona State University has proudly announced its newest major: Influencer. Fact: Only about 1-5% of influencers make a full-time living in this career. This is similar to actors (~3%). Consequence: ASU will produce a new flock of useless, unemployable graduates. Brilliant.
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Is it Time to Worry?

It is time to focus on what you can do that AI cannot. Know yourself and AI as well. Survival, people, is where you're at. Me? I'm retired NOTE: The Elon Musk prediction below.
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Special Pricing

 For each, according to their abilities*.  *Karl Marx, maybe.
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Belief – Not as Religion but as Cognition

Through years of research, I've noticed how important it is to truly believe in what I’m trying to prove or solve. Ambivalence means defeat from the onset. Even artists must believe in what the goal is and, moreover, that they can do it. So, we conclude that belief is yet another component of intelligence. It need not imply that any religion or cult is the agency. Combine these with the other forms of intelligence to create the full set: •                     General Intelligence •                     Creativity •                     Belief •                     Curiosity •     ...
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Aliens and Us

  Aliens and Us Introduction . If you believe there are aliens, even visitors to Earth, you must consider that these civilizations have evolved their knowledge and world, perhaps in ways similar to ours. They traversed periods of continual war, industrialization, nuclear invention, our current AI crisis, and crises beyond that yet unknown to us. What survived is what they are. Have they merged with their machines, maintained their identity, or been completely surpassed by their electronic progeny? Of course, we cannot know, but as to AI we can consider possibilities and options, at least to write them down. One current plan, emerging from all over, is to delimit or shackle further AI development. On this, it takes only one party not to comply to ensure our own destruction. Let’s consider the possibilities. Three Possibilities. The premise is sound and cuts to the heart of the Fermi paradox’s quieter implications. Any civilization capable of interstellar travel—or even reliab...
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Mental Health and Selfishness

  A recent paper in a psychology journal reveals that your resilience and well-being are determinants for your positive mental health. Yet this is not new; it is a common expression in the military dating from WWII: “Noli Illigitimti Carborundum,” meaning “Don’t let the bastards get you down.” It is not ancient nor Latin. The Selfishness Paradox. For your welfare, one way is to think mostly of your own welfare, progress, and wealth. The other way is to focus on giving yourself to the welfare of others. Both can be immensely satisfying. Many professionals and others follow the latter: teachers, ministers, parents, …
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Your Inheritance

  Note. If you're middle-aged with aging parents, then your inheritance will depend on who is elected president. The Dems currently plan to impose an inheritance tax. Currently, there is a tax on only very wealthy beneficiaries.
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