Is that the best subject line of the day, or what?
Anyway, a mathematical analysis of the “toilet seat” problem encountered by mixed-gender couples sharing common facilities. Amusing.
It is notable that John and Marsha each advocates a strategy that benefits them. This is predictable under game theory. However the conflict over strategies has a cost M in marital discord that is greater than the cumulative cost of toilet seat transfers. It behooves John and Marsha, therefore, to adopt a strategy that minimizes M.
This is not simple. A common reaction is to advance sundry arguments to justify adopting strategy M or J. All such arguments are suspect because they are self serving (and often accompanied with the “If you loved me” ploy.) A sound strategy is one that is equitable and is seen to be equitable.
(via GeekPress)
Print
Buzz
Facebook
Twitter
Google Reader
Flickr
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I have always put the seat down afterward! In fact, I close the lid as well.
My new roommate prefers to have the lid up. I try to accomodate her, and only about 10% of the time do I close it out of habit.
cats = lid down
No women in the house