Simple, Complex, and Complicated
The Zen of Python tells us that “Simple is better than complex. Complex is better than complicated.” I have some further thoughts …
Simple comes from simplex for “onefold,” while complex means “manifold.” Simple and complex are inherent qualities in two directions on a continuum. Complication comes from complicat for “folded together.” Complications live in their own dimension, arising from interactions between simple and complex things.
Thrust, drag, weight, and lift are simple forces; an airplane is complex; flying is complicated.
The four forces of flight are each simple on their own. An airplane is a complex machine with many parts. Flying an airplane is a complicated interaction between forces, plane parts, and a pilot negotiating the air.
Starting a car is relatively simple; the starter system is relatively complex. Turning the steering wheel of a car is relatively simple; steering a car down the road is also relatively simple … and also complicated.
Origami can be simple or it can be complex. How I feel about origami is complicated.
You are complex … I am complex … and we are complicated.
Our needs may be simple but the ways we meet our needs are complex (and often complicated).
Words are simple. Words are complex. Words are complicated.
