What is the most accurate definition of "fiat"? I'll start with: fiat is a detachment from naturally occurring equilibrium conditions, usually sustained by more or less temporary imbalances of power. By definition, it creates an environment that cannot last and under which more damage and suffering than necessary are experienced as events unfold that cause everything to revert to its original and self-sustaining state. #asknostr

Programmers are creators of universes for which they alone are responsible. Universes of virtually unlimited complexity can be created in the form of computer programs. - Joseph Weizenbaum, Computer Power and Human Reason (1974)