Technology/Science Principles

• 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
• Halting Problem in computing known to be unsolvable
  • This implies, among other things, that there cannot be a general algorithm for proving programs correct!
• Some computing problems known to require exponential time for solution
• Software developers know the impossibility of achieving complete, consistent, and unambiguous specifications

Common Perspective of Citizens, including 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 May 6, 2003 last revised May 11, 2003

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