In the mathematical field of numerical analysis, polynomial interpolation is the interpolation of a given data set by a polynomial. In other words, given some data points (a sampling), the aim is to find a polynomial which goes exactly through these points.
Polynomial Interpolation = Cynicism to the Third Power when the problem to be solved is a question of human activity, either in the present or throughout History.
Mathematics teaches a way of thinking that is provable and quantifiable. When such ways of thinking are applied to the subjective record of human History long enough, patterns emerge and those patterns repeat themselves so often as to evolve into "laws". The most basic "law" of History and Humanity is the "polynomial which goes exactly through these points", which is of course, CYNICISM.
Yes, there are exceptions, but they are exceptions that prove the rule as well as being self-defined anomalies, for they must be exceptional in order to gain recognition by their contrast. Cynicism is the most tried and true, time-tested, provable and quantifiable starting point for examining the derivations and effects of any human action. Using it effectively, eliminates a massive waste of time and energy, and rarely leads in the wrong direction. Which of course opens it's use, especially it's overuse which is rare but possible, to the criticism that it is a 'lazy way of thinking'. What some characterize as 'lazy' is to others a learned 'efficiency'.
Just as a Quadratic Equation must be solved, or squared, through the application of a formula in which certain processes must be performed in a certain order before the other processes can be initiated, in order to determine the correct solution, so must questions of human behaviour.
Begin with the most cynical quotient you can imagine as the basis for a human problem/question and you will find the most correct answer faster at least 90% of the time. The squared 'solution' arrived at, for at least, the derivation of a human action, will be as provable and quantifiable as the passage of time can make possible. The remaining 10% will either make itself clear soon enough or never be resolved.
stephenhsmith
16Jan07
