jimrandomh comments on A Request for Open Problems - Less Wrong

25 Post author: MrHen 08 May 2009 01:33PM

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Comment author: jimrandomh 08 May 2009 08:57:35PM 2 points [-]

If all humans currently alive collectively represent every possible variable combination in this regard, the maximum value for the answer is 32.7 bits[1]. That is, 33 on/off switches completely decide whether or not you will put off doing your homework[2]. Is the correct value higher or lower?

Much, much higher. The humans currently alive represent only a very sparse sampling of possible combinations of genes, and an even sparser sampling of possible combinations of life experiences. I don't see any obvious reason why the answer to this question shouldn't be greater than the number of subatomic particles in your body.

Comment deleted 08 May 2009 10:29:38PM [-]
Comment author: robzahra 09 May 2009 01:40:48PM *  1 point [-]

Due to chaotic / non-linear effects, you're not going to get anywhere near the compression you need for 33 bits to be enough...I'm very confident the answer is much much higher...