I found this when looking through a website; the title seems humourous, but it actually explores the method of optimal stopping, or considering the "Secretary Problem". When faced with many choices, a person should go through the first 36.8% of their sample, and not choose anyone in that first batch. After the first 36.8%, you should stop at the one that you like. Either offer the job (or propose or whatever) to the first one that you are satisfied with and forget the rest. This is more strategic and likely to bring about happiness more than random chance, thus, mathematically makes sense.
The problem is explained in a book by Alex Bellos, The Grapes of Math, and discusses Johannes Kepler's problem in finding a wife.
Short but interesting read. Something that might be a good high interest activity in a math class; read the article, and have students make up their own "Secretary Problem".
Link to article:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/krulwich/2014/05/15/312537965/how-to-marry-the-right-girl-a-mathematical-solution
Maria,
ReplyDeleteI loved this story/explanation because it reminded me at first of the scientific answer to the old question "why do gentlemen prefer blondes." Both are non-romantic approaches to getting the "right mate." Facinating story . Thanks.
Non-romantic indeed John ha ha. BUT Kepler's story (as explained in linked article); that Kepler preferred potential wife number 4 & 5 (or close to 5...). He had 11 options, so had he followed this formula, he would have been satisfied! Of course this is easy to say after the fact!
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