Skip to content

There are no hard problems, only problems that are hard to…

“There are no hard problems, only problems that are hard to a certain level of intelligence. Move the smallest bit upwards [in intelligence] and some problems move from "impossible" to "obvious." Move a substantial degree upwards, and all of them will become obvious.” quote by Eliezer Yudkowsky
Download Open image
““There are no hard problems, only problems that are hard to a certain level of intelligence. Move the smallest bit upwards [in intelligence] and some problems move from "impossible" to "obvious." Move a substantial degree upwards, and all of them will become obvious.””

Eliezer Yudkowsky

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Intelligence determines which problems seem solvable; raising it makes the impossible become obvious.

In simple terms: Higher intelligence makes hard problems easier.

Key Takeaway

Invest in learning and cognitive growth.

Themes

intelligence problem solving progress

Mood

optimistic inquisitive

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • research
  • technology development
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

cognitive development complexity theory AI alignment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure intelligence growth benefits all?
  • What problems remain despite higher intelligence?
A Different Perspective

Intelligence gains may be limited by resources or bias.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Eliezer Yudkowsky

Explore all 274 Eliezer Yudkowsky quotes

More 1996 quotes

Browse all 7 1996 quotes