TED Community » Robert Johnson

About Me

Location:
United States, Newark, DE
Gender:
Male


Comments

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  • A comment on Talk: Hannah Fry: Is life really that complex?

    Dec 18 2012: I don't understand was she trying to say that there could be an algorithm to "predict" patterns or interpret them? The problem with prediction is that it makes the assumption that human variable is going to act in some predetermined manner and will not deviate from the manner (aka Rioter calls friends and it's assumed the friends say "sure I'll riot with you"). Also a good portion of this is mathematics "after the fact" because it is common sense the most petty criminals are going to commit crimes in closer proximity to where they live. I would disagree with the premise that it's harder to predict what one person would do over many, especially in the area of crime, because there ARE certain givens that must exist to necessitate a person committing a criminal act and by using predictive analytics police could be positioned in places that would serve as a deterrent. However, nothing is fool-proof because the criminals are adaptive and as in her fox/rabbit analogy they will react to whatever measures are put in place to prevent them from committing a crime.

    All in all, a very interesting premise, but one that does requires more psychological inputs than mathematical equations.
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    A comment on Conversation: Has the time come for the U.S Second Amendment to be repealed or amended?

    Dec 18 2012: No. But guns should be regulated and treated as cars/driving. You should have to obtain a license and undergo training. In addition, all assault weapons should be banned. There is no need for regular citizens to own them. There is no "urban warfare" that would necessitate them, nor would they still be enough to combat the weapons owned by any armed forces. At the end of the day tho', gun violence is much more of a cultural issue than a legislative one.
  • A reply on Conversation: Who should decide what the purpose of education is?

    Jan 16 2012: LOL Provacative can be a good thing in these types of discussions.

    I think I understand where I may have went away from the question in regards to "purpose". I say since it affects all of us as a community, then it should be decided by the community. Some may say the purpose is to train people for better jobs. Some may say its to cultivate creativity. Some may say its just to teach you about the world around you so you're better suited to be successful. In my eyes, its a combination of all those things. And I don't think that one answer is the right answer. I believe that incorporating all of those answers is what's works best because it allow individuals to do what's best suited for them and then hopefully, that translates in how they can benefit the community as a whole.
  • A comment on Conversation: Who should decide what the purpose of education is?

    Jan 13 2012: I believe it should be a combination of the basics and fluid, customized learning. Kids should be taught how to read, write in their native language and do math. After that, I believe kids should be taught based on their interests, with their talents and abilities factored in. This would require a combination of academics, vocational and technical training. In a sense, to me after a child learns the 3 Rs, the parent and the child should begin to map out their educational course. Its almost as if college would begin at 3rd or 4th grade or (to keep it age independent) when the child demonstrates the ability to understand their choices and can effective choose their education path.

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