#183: Gall's Law, Solomon's Paradox & Reforming the World
3 Ideas in 2 Minutes on Solving Complex Problems
I. Gall's Law
Compared to modern standards, the first cars ever made were slow and rather simple. But also expensive and quite the death traps. However, they laid the groundwork for the modern engineering marvels we cannot afford today. Gall's Law makes the point that elaborate designs never materialise out of thin air.
A complex system that works is invariably found to have evolved from a simple system that worked. A complex system designed from scratch never works and cannot be patched up to make it work. You have to start over with a working simple system.
—John Gall
The law was coined by a pediatrician called John Gall in 1975. It’s reminiscent of a simple formula we often forget when learning or building anything: Start small. Do it badly. Iterate.
II. Solomon's Paradox
Solomon's Paradox suggests that we’re better at solving other people’s problems than our own. The paradox is named after the biblical King Solomon, a wise man known for his good sense of judgement.
An acquaintance is having trouble with a colleague at work? We can look at her situation objectively and unemotionally from an outside perspective and offer rational advice. But if we’re the ones in trouble, our involvement tends to cloud our judgment.
That’s why it’s beneficial to learn how to detach yourself emotionally from a situation to see things more clearly.
III. Reforming the World
So how do you solve problems in a complex system you happen to be a part of? A complex system such as the world and society at large.
When a young man asked [Scottish philosopher Thomas] Carlyle how he should go about reforming the world, Carlyle answered: “Reform yourself. That way there will be one less rascal in the world.” The advice is still valid. Those who try to make life better for everyone without having learned to control their own lives first usually end up making things worse all around.
―Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Flow
The road to hell can truly be paved with good intentions. 🐘
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Chris
themindcollection.com