The Basic Problem is…

Simplicity has its virtues, but like any source of relief, it can be addictive. We humans love our simplicity. We prefer the simple solution, the simple explanation, over all the complexities revealed by careful study and science. Thus are born monomaniacal dictators who declare themselves to be the solution. Thus are born conspiracy theories declaring all our troubles to be due to a secret society of millions, none of whom ever reveals their secret. For this reason, I propose to make a partial list of simple explanations, each one of which begins with the phrase, “The basic problem is…”

1. The basic problem is that we love simple answers too much. (Note self-reference!)
2. The basic problem is that we are too lazy to think critically.
3. The basic problem is that we are too lazy to learn enough to confront complex problems honestly.
4. The basic problem is that we are too lazy.
5. The basic problem is that we are too self-confident without justification.
6. The basic problem is that we lack confidence.
7. The basic problem is that we are wired for religion.
8. The basic problem is that we have abandoned religion.
9. The basic problem is that we are cruel.
10. The basic problem is that we can’t face cruel necessities.
11. The basic problem is that we love to be told what to do.
12. The basic problem is that we hate being told what to do.
13. The basic problem is that we are not free.
14. The basic problem is that we think we can have absolute freedom.
15. The basic problem is that we don’t have enough.
16. The basic problem is that we have too much.
17. The basic problem is that wealth is so unevenly distributed.
18. The basic problem is that we believe wealth can ever be evenly distributed.
19. The basic problem is that we lack compassion for our fellow creatures.
20. The basic problem is that we think we can eat without killing.
21. The basic problem is that we try to turn everything into numbers.
22. The basic problem is that we don’t understand simple arithmetic.
23. The basic problem is that we don’t appreciate art.
24. The basic problem is that we don’t know what art is.
25. The basic problem is that we don’t know what science is.
26. The basic problem is that science has taken over the world.
27. The basic problem is authority.
28. The basic problem is the decay of authority.
29. The basic problem is that we are too stupid.
30. The basic problem is that we are too smart for our own good.
31. The basic problem is that artificial intelligence is taking over the world.
32. The basic problem is unreasoning fear of artificial intelligence.
33. The basic problem is that we are enslaved.
34. The basic problem is that we love having slaves.
35. The basic problem is that we have too much power.
36. The basic problem is that we have too little power.

Please add your own… preferably in pairs, as above!