1 + 1 = 2?

I recently found myself captivated by Ellen Lengar’s unconventional approach to thinking, to life. She challenges simple assumptions and adds a fresh perspective. She poses intriguing questions such as, “Is one plus one always equal to two?” and “Does a horse eat donuts?” At first glance, these questions might seem absurd, but when you peel back the layers, they reveal a deeper invitation to think outside the box.

Is one plus one always equal to two?

You might have learned in math class that 1 + 1 always equals 2. However, in real life, the sum of two things isn’t always as in arithmetic. For example, consider two separate water puddles: when they merge, rather than remaining two distinct entities, they combine into one larger puddle. In the realm of computing, 1 + 1 can equal 10 when interpreted in binary.

These examples remind us that context can completely redefine our understanding of a basic equation. Moreover, the way you answer this question might vary depending on your audience—whether you’re speaking to a mathematician, a computer scientist, or someone interested in creative thinking. Adapt your response can lead to reacher conversations and new perspectives that may seem like a simple truth.

Lateral thinking

Ellen’s style resonates with other thinkers who have pushed the boundaries of conventional thought. For example, Zen koan “What is the sound of one hand clapping?” These puzzling queries aren’t meant to be solved by logic alone, expecially predefined logic by societies; instead, they invite us to break free from conventional patterns of thinking.

By questioning the obvious and exploring alternative perspectives, we open ourselves up to innovative ideas and unexpected insights. Whether it's reimagining simple equations or challenging everyday assumptions, you may find that the world is far more intriguing than the straightforward arithmetic of 1 + 1 = 2