… is alive and well, according to economist Tim Harford. It’s the idea that problems can be reduced to the kind of manageability that can be addressed by a single series of solutions – all within the province of a particular discipline. Far more effective, standing the test of time, and far more prolific in everyday life, is the humble trial and error approach.
As a bumbling, manufacturer’s manual avoiding, “let’s see if this works”, negotiator of 21st century challenges, both technical and social, I am encouraged by what he says.
Here’s his talk: Tim Harford: Trial, error and the God complex | Video on TED.com.
Wondering Pilgrim 