First Blog

  Can We Ever Solve Every Problem? G Donald Allen Introduction. The fundamental problem of this section is to consider reasons why we have not yet reached the point in human evolution where we can solve all of our problems. This seems to have a popular origin in the Sherlock Holmes film, “Dressed to Kill [1] ,” where Dr. Watson, expresses the notion, “There is not a problem the mind can set that the mind cannot solve.” In the next section, we show quite the opposite. Some of the greatest of unsolvable problems are related to brain capacity, evolution, conceptuality, prediction, scale, vagueness, complexity, and more. These present roadblocks to problem-solving, and form the background for many almost unsolvable problems. There are multiple reasons, by no means the smallest class of them being the so-called impossible problems to be considered in another chapter. As well, we need to discuss further methodologies for solutions to come in the next chapter. Here are a few examples,

On Quotes Making a quote is a combination of the economy of just the right words and subject.   “A stitch in time saves nine,” is a classic for brevity, accuracy, and memorability.   Another is, “You will never win if you don’t begin” by Helen Rowland.   From Confucius we are instructed, “ Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” But is it really?   “To the victor go the spoils,” is so famous with so many variations, its original author has been forgotten*. Often quotes have a vague tone allowing for multiple interpretations, at least one resonating with the reader. Many are optimistic while others are cautionary.   Some of the favorites are “end-of-the-day” types where it seems life is speaking to you from afar. Below are a few variations on the same theme of the sweet life not being what it seemed .   You believe you’ve found the sweet spot of living only to find it candy-coated misery. Just when you’ve found the sweet spot, you discover it’s

Writing well – for math class???   Yes, writing well is important for the expression of ideas.   This is not a deviation from the needs of math students.    Even math students need to express themselves using ours or any language.    Indeed, how can anything be achieved without something of a command of thought - though linguistic expression.       Consider the article at   http://chronicle.com/article/10-Tips-on-How-to-Write-Less/124268/   It lists many ideas for students, professionals, and even parents on how to express their ideas by writing well. Included in this list are the importance of (1) the practice of writing, (2) the goals of writing, (3) the time required for proper and correct expression, (4) the profundity of written expression, and more.   These are not only tips, they are pathways and guidelines everyone needs to understand.   Specifically for students, one cannot simply pull an all-nighter, under pressure, to produce a masterpiece or to solve a diff