The Linear Fallacy

As one gains seniority, there is a presumption--dubious, perhaps--that one also gains wisdom. Thus, I find myself asked, not infrequently, to share some wisdom with junior researchers who seek insight that can foster success in their careers or life in general. I offer one cautionary bit of advice: "Life is not linear." Linearity is one of the greatest success stories in mathematics. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, "Unlike other parts of mathematics that are frequently invigorated by new ideas and unsolved problems, linear algebra is very well understood." In the U.S., in eighth grade, pupils learn how to analyze and represent linear functions and solve linear equations and systems of linear equations.