Losing Contact With Logic: Examining the Thin Layer of Reason

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of maintaining logical reasoning while solving complex problems, particularly in the context of mathematics and physics. Participants explore the feelings of confusion and frustration that arise when logic seems to break down, as well as the implications of questioning foundational concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a struggle with maintaining logical reasoning when faced with complex problems, feeling as though they lose contact with logic and question their own thought processes.
  • Another participant suggests that slowing down may help, sharing their own experience of becoming overly absorbed in logic and losing sight of the original purpose of their thinking.
  • A different participant highlights the importance of being aware of one's problem-solving approach, indicating that self-reflection can be a valuable skill.
  • There is a question about whether the discussion pertains specifically to math and physics problems or more generally to all types of problems, with participants sharing varied experiences related to both contexts.
  • One participant likens their experience to an infinite loop in a computer program, suggesting that they can become overloaded in their thought processes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing experiences and perspectives regarding the nature of logical reasoning in problem-solving. While some find value in self-reflection, others question the applicability of these experiences across different types of problems. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these experiences and whether they are universally applicable.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention feelings of confusion and frustration without reaching a consensus on the nature of these experiences or their implications for problem-solving. There is also uncertainty about the relationship between repetitive thinking and problem-solving effectiveness.

Sefrez
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When ever I go trying to solve a problem, especially the ones that have my mind greatly diverge into many concepts, I seem to notice myself losing contact with logic. Its like a bad dream really. I find myself attempting to solve how I am solving a problem and so on. Or at least questioning what ever the heck I am actually doing. I begin to feel as if simple concepts, to what seems to be the foundation of my thinking, break down and nothing sensible is left. Does anyone else experience this? Often at times like this I usually get angry and give up at the problem with a, "I'm just stupid I guess." But I wonder if everyone notices that logic seems to be a "thin layer" like this? And maybe the difference between them and me is simply that for some reason I am inclined to solve it rather than ignore it.

But this leads me to wondering if basic concepts should not be questioned; because if logic does break down there can't be any point in doing so if I am to continue living in the "logical world".

I also wonder if what I experience could be considered OCD. For example repetitive thoughts don't help. But I am unsure as to how much repetitive thinking is usual in solving a problem that is hard - because it is just that, not knowing where to go next.
 
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Try slowing down first. I had the opposite problem where I would get so absorbed in logic and reasoning that I would forget what the purpose of my thinking was to begin with haha.
 
Sefrez said:
I find myself attempting to solve how I am solving a problem and so on.
This is actually a very important problem solving skill. Simply being aware of such a notion is good progress!
 
Sefrez said:
When ever I go trying to solve a problem, especially the ones that have my mind greatly diverge into many concepts, I seem to notice myself losing contact with logic.
Are you talking about math and physics problems?
 
Hurkyl said:
This is actually a very important problem solving skill. Simply being aware of such a notion is good progress!

Hmm. Well I know I can get over loaded quite easily. If I were a computer program I would describe myself as an infinite loop in that it only ends when memory and CPU get too high.

zoobyshoe said:
Are you talking about math and physics problems?

As per most recent experiences, yes, though I see it being general. Is there reason as to why you are specific?
 
Sefrez said:
Is there reason as to why you are specific?
If you're talking about math/physics, I don't know what to tell you. If you're talking about all other sorts of problems I think I've had the same experience.
 

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