Algorithms

Yesterday's post generated quite a few comments, including several appreciations for an algorithmic approach to decision-making. (An algorithm is a set of well-defined steps which lead to the completion of a task. Algorithms are sometimes represented as flowcharts, as in yesterday's illustration.)

I suspect most of us long for an algorithm that could guide us through life's inevitable challenges. There's a part of us that just wants to follow instructions. (I spent the first five years of Zen practice happily learning how to follow instructions: bow, chant, walk, etc.)

Of course, the problem with an algorithmic life strategy is that it inevitably involves compliance.

What's wrong with compliance? Well, for one thing, no algorithm could ever respond to the unique requirements of any moment. If there were such an algorithm, some ancient Zen master would have printed it up and placed it on the bedside table of every hotel room.

But, more importantly, compliance always comes partnered with defiance (thanks, Bob S!). Whenever we comply with instructions, the urge to defy is always present. And whenever there is embedded defiance, war is not far away.

Sometimes I think that Zen was invented specifically to resolve the problem with algorithms. It's commonplace to say that Zen cultivates wisdom and compassion. But Zen training also fosters creativity, an essential factor in responding to the demands of the moment.

And creativity can never be channeled through a flowchart.

Comments

[Suzanne]

The mind likes things nice and tidy and logical. The heart doesn't give a flying fart, as long as the goal is deemed worthy. Combine the two at peril, and satisfaction. Thus unfolds life, untidily, and beautiful in its stubborn refusal to make sense.

[Genju]

you left out "don'wanna" - it's s square peg coming out of a round hole. ;-)

[BuddhaFrog]

After several iterations, you may find that an "is it compassionate?" decision box will upgrade the process; but perhaps that depends on how you define "good story".

[John Small]

"Will it make a good story anyway?" is the real kicker here. Story for ourselves, or story for others, doesn't really matter. I've put a lot of time and effort into some of those stories, and derived juicy satisfaction from telling them, both to myself and others. Then, after a while, it's exhausting for everyone!

You know what I'm talking about!

[Barry Briggs]

John, I think you're right - sometimes the story is quite important (in Zen, we treasure the stories of Tang Dynasty teachers!) and other times it's just another "I, my, me, mine" obsession.