Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

Unfortunately, it's logical thinking that is bizzarre. Irrationality is the norm.



While I'm not sure I agree, there's a fun meta discussion from Quora http://www.quora.com/Are-humans-fundamentally-rational-or-ir....


Logical thinking is fine: garbage in — garbage out.

Logical thinking won't help if you give it incorrect input data.

Unless you believe in supernatural; everything is math provided a correct model.


That is a complete misunderstanding of the word model. Models are tools to help describe expected behaviour given a plethora of assumptions - they are not there to perfectly predict what can and will happen.

The idea that a model can do so has caused innumerable problems of late and it is frustrating to hear such myths perpetuated.


To describe "what can and will happen" requires its own assumptions and therefore model.

If you can't see a model you are not digging deep enough.

Though I understand your point of view. Some think that the fundamental physics can end i.e., a unified theory of everything is possible.

It is more likely that it is turtles all the way down i.e, we can always observe phenomena that contradict predictions of current theories (reveal assumptions that are not valid for the phenomenon).




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: