Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Proof Techniques

Unfortunately, in order for something to be generally accepted as fact it must be proven, meaning that it must be shown to be true for all cases. However, the most commonly used ways for proving things are usually inadequate, being that they rely on the truth instead of more convenient techniques. For the sake of simplicity, here are a couple of more practical methods to prove things.

Proof by Blatent Assertion:

Use words and phrases like "clearely", "obviously" and "as any fool can plainly see..."

Proof by Intimidation:

This can be useful for physical as well as abstract assertions. For example, "you better believe this if you know what's good for you" is a good argument if you are in a position to use your suppior strength to subdue your opponent, like a younger sibling or small animal...

Proof by Interuption:

Just keep interrupting until your opponenet gives up.

Proof by Misconception:

An example of this is "2 equals 3 for very large values of 2". Once introduced, any conclusion is reachable.

Proof by Confusion:

Your argument should be arranged into ciruclar patterns of reasoning. If your feeling creative, try to arrange it in more complex patterns, such as figure 8's.

If used correctly, you should find it incredibly easy to raise and defend any statement you wish. Can you think of any different types of proofs that I might not have stated? Also, can you add to or revise any of the proofs listed?

http://www.jyi.org/resources/humor/proofs.html

2 comments:

  1. I would add something like, "proof by intimidation" or even "proof by picture" as some of the different types. Why is it that people can not accept things as theories? What psychological aspect of the mind, calls fourth curiosity?

    -Jordan

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  2. Jordan-
    I think people can't accept theories because they just simply will not open their minds up enough to allow a possibility to be, well, "possible." Hence the term "close-minded."

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