Orckham’s razor is a problem-solving principle that states form two equally good solution it is better to choose the easier one.
The razor was named after William Ockham, a Franciscan monk and philosopher who lived and worked in the 14th century. In many aspects his work went against the mainstream philosophy of his age, while his thoughts are remained a base of argument for the upcoming centuries, it is a fact that he brought novelty into the way of thinking. He also encouraged many to scientific research and to discover the once forbidden and unknown phenomena. He had huge effect on Copernicus’ predecessor, Miklós Oresmei to study the planets. Through Orcham’s adventurous life he quarrelled with Pope (not for the razor thing) who banished him form the church.
His most famous teaching is a principle of economy alias Orckham’s razor. According to the principle of a phenomenon has two, but equally possible answers you should pick the one that based on the less presumption. Thus, form two possible explanation it is always make more sense to choose the easier one. Every reason that don’t directly explain the phenomenon is unnecessary therefore it should be rejected. For example, if a split tree trunk lies on the road ahead of you, that can be explained with a lightning bolt hitting it, or that the tree was split as a result of a secret governmental weapon experiment in the forest. The easier explanation is the lightning bolt, and let’s admit it that one makes more sense.
The difficult puzzles usually become difficult because as we try to solve them on much more complex way that it should be solved. In the majority of cases always the easier solution is the good solution, as the philosopher says. Ergo, if in an escape room we are thinking too much to solve a puzzle we are definitely on the wrong track, and it is expedient to start to look for a solution from scratch again. During the game, we have a lot of ‘aha’ experiences, it is when you slap your forehead as the solution was so trivial just you haven’t seen the forest from the tree. So, if you are going to an escape room always keep Orckham’s razor in your pocket and mind, and look for the less complex solution.