Flukes Flashcards
What is the main idea of chaos theory as discussed in the text?
Small, seemingly insignificant events can have enormous consequences.
Examples include the atomic bombings of Japan influenced by a vacation and the evolution of complex life from a single-celled organism engulfing another.
What does the term ‘ripple effects’ refer to?
Flukes create ripple effects that shape our lives and societies in unpredictable ways.
Examples include the printing press influencing spelling and a genetic mutation leading to invasive species.
How is reality described in terms of interconnectedness?
Everything in our world is connected, and any change can have far-reaching consequences.
This includes interconnectedness from subatomic particles to cosmic structures.
What does ‘constant flux’ mean in the context of our world?
Our world is in a constant state of change.
Examples include shifting tectonic plates and evolving species.
What is the ‘Fitness Beats Truth’ theorem?
Our perceptions are more like a useful illusion than an accurate representation of reality.
This suggests our brains evolved primarily for survival rather than truth.
List three cognitive biases mentioned in the text.
- Narrative bias
- Confirmation bias
- Hindsight bias
These biases distort our understanding of reality.
What is meant by ‘self-organized criticality’?
The concept where small changes can trigger large-scale events.
Examples include stock market crashes and political regime collapses.
What does the text say about free will?
Free will is an illusion, but our actions still matter.
The debate centers on whether actions are predetermined or if there is room for genuine choice.
What is environmental determinism?
The influence of geography on human societies, although extreme forms are discredited.
Key factors include access to natural resources and climate potential.
What are some examples of geographic influence on history?
- Shape and orientation of continents
- Distribution of domesticable plants and animals
- Location of mountain ranges and rivers
These factors shape technological spread and political boundaries.
What strategies are suggested for embracing uncertainty?
- Cultivate curiosity
- Practice mindfulness
- Engage in ‘negative capability’
These strategies help in appreciating the complexity of life.
What is the significance of the ‘butterfly effect’?
Small actions can have large, unforeseen consequences.
This concept encourages mindfulness in decision-making.
True or False: The text suggests that everything happens for a reason.
False
It critiques this belief as oversimplifying life and ignoring randomness.
What does the text say about the role of narratives?
Narratives help make sense of complex realities and shape beliefs.
Narrative bias influences how we interpret random events.
What philosophical implications does the text suggest regarding determinism?
Our choices result from prior causes, and we are not ultimately responsible for our actions in a moral sense.
However, punishment may still be justified for pragmatic reasons.
Fill in the blank: Recognizing the inherent _______ and complexity of our world can be liberating.
uncertainty
What does Klaas argue about meritocracy?
Success often results from luck and chance, not just talent or hard work.
Statistical evidence supports that wealth and success are influenced by random factors.
