The Problem Solver’s Non-Hypocritic Hippocratic Oath

Abstract

PROBLEM SOLVERS OF ALL KINDS, UNITE! We have nothing to lose but our illusions. (Warning: If we lose our illusions we might be losing everything, if our world is but an illusion !!!) ~ We will remember that We didn't make the world, and it doesn't have to satisfy our solutions. ~ We realize that mathematical equations are a minor part of any solution. The major elements should include the ease with which others can understand and replicate our efforts. ~ Before We rush to try our solutions, We will do our best to think of all the unintended consequences that can arise. That being said, if We see no other options, We will use the solutions We have developed to the best of our abilities, as we look for more complete solutions. ~ We will not be overly impressed by the tools we have learnt to solve problems though we will boldly use them when deemed absolutely necessary. This implies that even if there are no problems to solve, we need to keep looking for new techniques and more importantly new thoughts or sometimes just old forgotten ones, (that seems like we have an unresolved problem). ~ We will never sacrifice reality for elegance without explaining why We have done so. ~ Nor will We give the people who use our solution false comfort about its accuracy. Instead, We will make explicit its assumptions and oversights. ~ We understand that our work may have enormous effects on society and the economy, many of them beyond our comprehension. ~ If we print these pages, we will plant at least one tree as soon as possible and many more as often as we can ... if we are convinced ... that it is absolutely necessary ...