Math and WWI
The first five configurations were all unbalanced, in the sense that they each contained at least one unbalanced triangle. The resultant dissonance tended to push these nations to realign themselves, triggering reverberations elsewhere in the network. In the final stage, Europe had split into two implacably opposed blocs — technically “balanced” but on the brink of war.
The only way I like my Math - relatable.
This brilliant column by Steven Strogatz should be high on your list of weekly readables.
