World Logic Day, recognized by UNESCO, is celebrated annually on January 14. The day promotes the study of deductive reasoning, encouraging individuals to engage with logical thinking. As the event approaches next week, puzzle enthusiasts are invited to test their reasoning abilities with a challenging scenario involving three friends.
In this thought experiment, Andy, Bea, and Celine have a jar containing ten cookies. Each friend takes turns to withdraw cookies from the jar, with Andy going first, followed by Bea, and then Celine. The friends have agreed on specific conditions governing their choices. The first priority is to avoid having the most or the least cookies, as having the most is perceived as greedy, while having the least is seen as undesirable. Joint outcomes of being the most or the least are equally frowned upon. Their secondary goal is to maximize the number of cookies each can claim.
The challenge lies in the fact that the friends cannot communicate or form alliances during this process. They must act rationally and in their best interests to navigate the conditions laid out. This scenario raises intriguing questions about decision-making and the implications of rational behavior in a competitive environment.
As participants prepare for World Logic Day, they are encouraged to reflect on their favorite illogical arguments and share their thoughts. The challenge is not only a test of logic but also a celebration of critical thinking, which is at the heart of the day’s purpose.
Deniz Sarikaya, an advocate for World Logic Day, highlights the importance of engaging with puzzles and logical reasoning as a way to sharpen one’s mind. For those seeking more complex challenges, the Royal Statistical Society’s Christmas Puzzle competition offers a range of difficult puzzles to test even the most skilled problem solvers.
In the spirit of World Logic Day, consider this puzzle as a way to kickstart your logical thinking. How many cookies do you think each friend will end up with? The answer will be revealed later, but for now, enjoy contemplating the intricacies of rational decision-making in this unique social experiment.
If you have a favorite puzzle or a suggestion for a new one, feel free to reach out via email. Engage with logic, challenge yourself, and celebrate the joy of reasoning on January 14.
