Several years ago, I wrote my blogs Less is More (2014) and More is Better (2016). Latter was about consumerism. The former has a broader context in our vocabulary. For some time, I’ve saved a 2021 Scientific American article for future blog use: Our brain typically overlooks this brilliant problem-solving strategy.
Many problem-solving solutions have two basic perspectives: additive solutions versus subtractive solutions. The problem-solving principle called Occam’s razor argues that “the simplest explanation is usually the best one”. Hence, people should look for simplicity rather than for (adding) complexity (my blogs on complexity vs simplicity).
Remarkably, the Scientific American article reveals that most people look at additive solutions (ie, More = Better) while few look at subtractive solutions (ie, Less = More). The article wonders “whether the bias against subtractive solutions generalizes across cultures and if it exists in childhood or develops over time.”
In 2021, I wrote several blogs on the complexity bias (12x) and the simplicity bias (6x) (my blogs). Recently, latter 6 were deleted by Google Blogspot (my blog). This created complexity in my mind. Within days, I chose for a simple solution: transfer all content to this new website. I prefer simplicity over complexity.
I think, feel, believe and assume that additive solutions require less energy and/or brain power. Hence, we tend to opt for solutions that are quick and dirty rather than comprehensive. This saves time and money while poor quality is our successor’s problem. In psychological terms: a quick fix mentality versus delayed gratification.
At work, we are often swamped with many big and small issues (a.k.a. “problems”). Hence, managers prefer a quick-fix mentality rather than spending precious time on a permanent fix. No wonder that additive solutions are often chosen. There would, however, be no objection against subtractive solutions – if presented.
The above is also the subject of a famous 1982 booklet that I recommend reading: The one minute manager.
New York Minute (1989) by Don Henley
artist, lyrics, video, Wiki-1, Wiki-2
Note: all markings (bold, italic, underlining) by LO unless stated otherwise.
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