Most everyone is familiar with Occam’s Razor, which is usually stated as
“The simplest explanation is usually the right one.”
or
“Do not multiply entities without necessity!”
(This idea also makes its appearance in medical school with this classic saying: “when you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras.” )
So far, so good.
But after rereading Paul Dirac’s paper “The Relation between Mathematics and Physics” published in 1939, I do wonder if what we should be looking for is beauty (or at least mathematical beauty) rather than simplicity.
In Dirac’s paper (one which I encourage all people with a scientific bent to read), he makes a great case for mathematical beauty superseding simplicity within the context of physics.
But I wonder, in other areas—such as medicine, economics, philosophy, and politics—perhaps we should be seeking beautiful solutions rather than simple ones?
——————————-
For a great lecture about Dirac, check out the superb video by physicist and author Graham Farmelo: Graham Farmelo on Paul Dirac and Mathematical Beauty.
For more information on Occam’s Razor, check out What Not to Multiply Without Necessity by Jonathan Schaffer.