Occam's Razor and the Age of the Heart

William of Ockham died in 1347. A few centuries later, based on his work, the term Occam’s Razor was coined. Basically, it means that when there are two competing theories, the simpler explanation is probably right. Also, theories that explain things should not be any more complex than necessary. The simpler, the better. Not sure if H.L. Mencken was aware of this…

Our technological world, with instant communication, has created an ability for theories to grow (often unchecked) and coupled with platforms (social media) and their vast reach it’s so easy for conspiracy theories to take on a life of their own. 

I understand that conspiracy theories can be fun and there are easter eggs and red herrings and rabbit holes that can make the doom scrolling entertaining, but come on. The next post will retell a famous conspiracy, but for the most part, we should step back and with Occam’s Razor cut away all that isn’t simple. That’s where the truth usually lies. 

H.L Mencken once said, “For every problem there is a solution that is clear, simple, and wrong.” So, we need to use the skills in the Age of the Heart like discernment, reflection, looking at things from other’s perspectives and being willing to change your mind.