Maximize, Minimize and Optimize

Mathematics provides us with rigorous mechanics with which to discuss dictionary defined 'Maximize' and 'Minimize.' To abbreviate, Calculus studies this to such distraction that the fundamental theorem of Calculus is the definition of change. Max is changed until max limit is reached, Min is changed until min limit is reached.

Optimization is different, but not obviously so. Theoretically it is less specific, merely preserving the 'limit' qualification of change. The dictionary documents the characterization of 'best,' and the mechanics of how this might be attempted mathematically is the subject of my discourse.

Launching out to a sort of Gestalt, without a road map of my journey is my first effort.

1. Take a list of characteristics that together qualify the 'best' characteristic of the solution.
2. Maximized the desirable ones,
3. Minimize the undesirable ones.
4. (Not simply done.) Make the solution reflect the collection as perfectly as possible.

I am already prepared to invite scrutiny, so enamored am I of it's elegance. For example, the above 'definition,' (I know it's actually a listing,) adequately informs us about a Computer program that has been optimized; We are already asking was it optimized for performance, or speed of development, maintenance or distributive scalability. Performance itself invites a listing of what is to have been maximized and minimized. No listing? have a discussion.

In Africa there is a tribe somewhere that marks departure (as did Shakespeare,) with the protocol:

• Go in Peace!
• Stay in Peace!

Of course they greet one another VERY practically: I _see_ you!

I'm working on a one line felicitation. Until then,

CUl8r