Intuition and surprise

Abstract

PurposeThis editorial seeks to address the importance of intuition and metaphor in the construction of logical systems of thought.Design/methodology/approachTwo unconventional approaches to probability theory are considered, one based upon the non‐intuitive law of the excluded middle, and one based upon the notion of surprise.FindingsIt is argued that formal systems based upon non‐intuitive assumptions/axioms are generally less likely to be accepted by researchers. Nevertheless, it sometimes is possible to identify unconventional systems with greater intuitive appeal than their more orthodox counterparts.Originality/valueThe editorial emphasizes an aspect of formal mathematical systems – intuition – that is often overlooked.