> The problem with spending so much time optimizing an artificial mathematical model (game) is that less work and time is required to create the model than to optimize it. Therefore (to me), it's the losers than spend time working on other people's problems that never move up to the next level: being creative. It's just a mechanical process. (and yes, I'm aware that some creativity is involved in the optimization)
I can see where you are coming from. But I do not entirely share your view. E.g. inventing the game of Go is much simpler than mastering it. But I would not call go players losers.
> My value system is in creating something for other people. So creativity and value to others, are the metric I use when allocating my time.
Why make an exception? Just use: "My value system is in creating something for people." You are worthwhile, too.
I've toyed with reverse Solipsism for some time now. Must be too much philosophy.
What did Steve Martin say once? He didn't have a lot of philosophy in college, just enough to screw him up for the rest of his life. :)
I don't seek validation in others -- but I do seek validation in my own assurance that I am creating something that will prove of value to others. By that metric, I question if I would be able to be so certain about that if I had spent those 3 years doing what he did.
Game-playing, drinking, singing, hiking, flying, etc are all wonderful activities -- but they are wonderful because they help me optimize the other things I am doing. When I start focusing on the pleasure they give me in themselves, I lose track of the larger goal. Perhaps even forgetting I have a larger goal. Not a good thing.
I can see where you are coming from. But I do not entirely share your view. E.g. inventing the game of Go is much simpler than mastering it. But I would not call go players losers.
> My value system is in creating something for other people. So creativity and value to others, are the metric I use when allocating my time.
Why make an exception? Just use: "My value system is in creating something for people." You are worthwhile, too.