Empowerment

Besides being an interesting problem mathematically the solution to the Minimum Links problem illustrates how knowledge and skill act as enablers. They allow us to choose the best among many possible options. Evolution has allowed the cell to acquire a "bag of tricks" which empowers it to adapt and respond to changes in its environment. Knowledge plays a similar role in society. Change alone may not be enough. We have to be selective in what we empower and avoid options which may lead to our downfall.


Consider the following set of synomyns and antonyms:

empowerment - embargo

enabler - disabler

catalyst - inhibitor

strength - weakness

able - inept

competence - incompetence


We probably all need to improve our level of competence.