People I (Mostly) Admire 45. Leidy Klotz on Why the Best Solutions Involve Less — Not More
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Sep 18, 2021 Leidy Klotz, a Professor of Engineering at the University of Virginia and author of "Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less," discusses the often-overlooked power of subtraction in problem-solving. He shares how people instinctively lean towards adding rather than simplifying, drawing from engaging experiments, including ones with Legos. Klotz emphasizes that minimalist approaches can lead to more efficient solutions and communication. He challenges listeners to reconsider their cognitive defaults and embrace simplicity for better outcomes.
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Subtraction Neglect
- People tend to add to improve things, overlooking subtraction as a viable option.
- This bias against subtraction limits potential solutions and innovations.
Lego Experiment
- In a Lego experiment, participants were tasked with improving or stabilizing a structure.
- Most added blocks, missing the simpler subtractive solution despite a cost for adding.
Grid Experiment
- A grid experiment tested whether people considered subtraction or simply overlooked it.
- Participants often added to achieve symmetry, ignoring the fewer-clicks subtractive solution.
