# The Shadow of the Status Quo By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2024-03-13 Within the world of mathematics and engineering, there is the idea of finding the maximum value of a system given a series of constraints. For example, what is the optimal shape of a wing for a plane that must carry 300 people around the world in 24 hours? This problem can be translated into mathematical equations to find the optimal values. Suppose the level of abstraction (e.g., is one looking at the plane at the quantum or composite materials level?) is well-understood. In that case, this is a viable approach that happens regularly in many organizations and educational institutions. However, there are many situations where the level of abstraction is not well understood. In this case, it's nearly impossible to generate a mathematical equation representing what is happening. In these cases, one must study the system and problem statement more. While studying the system is obvious, studying the problem statement is often not. The problem statement may be incoherent or incomplete. Or, the problem statement may appear to be perfectly fine. Either way, one should look at the problem statement more when exploring poorly understood systems. Inevitably, one will arrive at a point where the problem statement is socially, economically, and politically motivated. These motivations cast a long shadow over the system of interest and create dark spots that make critical elements of the system impossible to see. This is the shadow of the status quo. The only way to increase one's understanding is to challenge the problem statement and seek alternatives. The theory of scientific revolutions is littered with brilliant individuals toiling away on problem statements that prevent them from seeing the system clearly. If one is driven by finding optimal solutions, I can guarantee the status quo is the wrong way to go. #### Related Items [[Mathematics]] [[Optimization]] [[Status Quo]] [[Problem Solving]] [[Systems Thinking]] [[Understanding]] [[Motivation]]