Simplicity Rules

The Wizard NebulaSimple rules have the potential for beautiful and complex behavior while complicated rules lead to stupid behavior.

Tax rules

Tax rules in most countries are perfect examples of complicated rules creating a context for idiotic behavior. Of course it’s not the tax payers’ fault. But the overly controlling rules and laws naturally lack the clarity and flexibility to allow for simplicity and organically beautiful behavior. In the end, paying taxes could be a noble thing to do. It’s just that the tax system is cluttered and entangled with complicated rules and does not provide clear guidance. The result is just one big non-sense.

Laws of Physics

The laws of physics are somewhat simple. Newton’s three simple rules are responsible for so much beautiful behavior. These simple rules have infinite applications in the form of movements, forces, interactions… it’s all so harmonious. And when Albert Einstein introduced the theory of relativity, and then the theory of general relativity, he didn’t introduce more rules or more laws. To the contrary, his vision enhanced the simplicity of the laws and integrated them into a broader system with clear and simple principles.

Albert Einstein says it so beautifully:

“nature is the realization of the simplest that is mathematically conceivable”

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2 Comments

  • Kate
    That’s a really great post. Short and to the point yet loaded with meaningful insights. I really enjoyed reading – thanks!
  • Mark
    We all hate to pay taxes. I guess that’s normal. But a system that has to work for millions and millions of people in many different situations is going to be complicated. You can’t always look for simple ways… Look at the traffic regulation system: lights, roads, signs, there are just so many factors. It’s not simple to optimize them for the best flow possible.

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