From: Steve Nichols (steve@multisell.com)
Date: Tue Mar 12 2002 - 03:16:23 MST
>
> Date: Mon, 11 Mar 2002 14:06:15 +0100
> From: Anders Sandberg <asa@nada.kth.se>
> Subject: Re: Transhumanism vs Humanity (WAS: Singularity Card Game Alpha
Test)
>
> On Mon, Mar 11, 2002 at 12:03:24AM -0800, Samantha Atkins wrote:
> >
> >
> > Anders Sandberg wrote:
> >
> > >Complex problems sometimes have simple solutions, but it is very rare.
> > >As a conjecture I would say that the solution to a problem usually
> > >requires roughly the same algorithmic complexity as the causes of the
> > >problem. > >
> >
"Problem's" are different across domains, and techniques to e.g. mend
a car might are different from techniques e.g. to console someone in a
relationship breakdown.
But give the generality of the term "problems" I do think that DIAGNOSIS
has a direct linear relationship to the complexity of the problem
(and sub-problems). Solving the problem, putting the diagnosis into effect,
is another matter. Using the example of traditional acupuncture diagnosis,
if you have a perfect diagnosis (pulses information &c. &c) then the
decision
where to place needle(s) is relatively simple.
> Do you really think there is a simple cause behind poverty, crime or
> racism? And if there are such simple causes, do you really think they
> would be simple to address?
I think that poverty may be a more structural problem than crime & racism,
both of which seem psychology rather than resource-based. Even if we
could use mass hypnosis to 'solve' these problems, there are ethical
questions whether we should .....
By the way, I am slightly worried by the implied arrogance in many
extro-postings, why Transhumanism VERSUS humanity? I think that
many ordinary folks are better and more useful than some
jumped-up extropians.
As a posthuman I try very hard not to reveal too much of my superiority
over 'mere' fledgling transhumans! (In jest .....)
Posthuman Salute
www.steve-nichols.com
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