Aside: Limitations of Technology and Problem Solving
Other Theoretical Limitations
The Halting Problem is one of several well-know scientific problems that
are not solvable:
-
Godel's Theorem in mathematics demonstrates mathematical
systems cannot be both complete and consistent
-
Heisenberg's Principle of Uncertainty states that we
cannot know everything about electron behavior
-
Physics specifies that nothing can travel faster than the speed
of light
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Halting Problem in computing known to be unsolvable
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Some computing problems known to require exponential time
for solution
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Software developers know the impossibility of achieving complete,
consistent, and unambiguous specifications
Common Perspective of Citizens, including Some Technologists
-
Technology can solve any problem, given sufficient time, resources, money
-
Technology has a remarkable success rate, so extrapolation to
all problems seems natural
-
Politicians pass bills to solve problems, even when technology community
believe no solution possible
-
Basis for funding of Strategic Defence Initiative in US (contrary
to all creditable computing professionals, such as
Computer Professionals
for Social Responsibility)
-
When folks feel ill, they consult a physician and may expect a pill or
other treatment
-
When privacy objections raised to a national information center, combining
personal data for all US agencies, common response is that technology
can solve any security problems
created 6 May 2003
last revised 7 January 2007
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