If I only learned one thing from Dr. Schmidt, it was this simple axiom:

“Until you understand the problem, you cannot arrive at a solution.”

Of course, Schmidt was speaking of Calculus. However, the saying is as true for society as it is for mathematics.

Case in point. After every tragedy, we stampede to our appointed corners. There, safely ensconced with the like-minded,  we scream at those with whom we disagree. The nightly news degenerates into argument and insult – “all fury and smoke, signifying nothing.”

Faced with a solutionless problem, Dad would often laugh, “Let’s just choose up sides and smell armpits.”

Come to think of it that might be more useful.  After all, what we are doing is not working.

Perhaps neither side properly understands the problem?

_____________________

David L Dahl

Read about Olivia’s Story: Protector of the Realm

Save

Save