Complexity and Simple-Minded
Problems are rarely black and white, right and wrong issues. Complex problems can be difficult to comprehend, hence the term "complex". People tend to boil the problems down into a simplified form to help understand the problem. This method of comprehension has both its advantages and disadvantages.
The advantage is that by understanding the simplified problem, the complex problem has the potential to be understood. The disadvantage is that people don't tend to advance their understanding to comprehend the complex problem. As a result, their conclusions and actions based on the simplified version may only partially address the more complex problem. Those who are incapable of understanding complex problems should not be in positions to try to solve them.
Even if someone can understand complex problems, he should not present the simplified problem and ask others to make up their own minds. People tend not to understand they are being mislead because simplified problems are so appealing to those who can't understand complex problems. Politicians who want popular support can simply provide a simplistic view of a problem to appeal to the majority. Being popular doesn't always mean being right, and we must be aware of this.
Content updated: 06 Jul 2004