MENTAL MODEL · M4061

The Ostrich Algorithm

DecideHigh supportDecision Science

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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

In computer systems, for problems with extremely low occurrence probability but extremely high resolution cost (such as deadlock detection), system designers choose to 'pretend it won't happen' (like an ostrich burying its head in the sand). In engineering, this is often the optimal solution.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Rational ignorance. Perfectionism is the enemy of engineering. For bugs or risks that are 'rare and have controllable consequences', explicitly choose 'not to fix', reserving resources for the core path. Acknowledge that 'not solving' is also a solution strategy.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

In operating systems and concurrent programming, for exceptions with extremely low occurrence probability but extremely high detection and resolution cost (typically deadlock), designers choose to ignore their occurrence and not invest in detection mechanisms. The rationale is that the overhead of handling the problem (performance loss, complexity) may be greater than the loss caused by occasional occurrence, so 'pretending it doesn't happen' is overall better.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

Assess the probability of occurrence and the cost per occurrence of the exception
Assess the operational overhead and complexity of prevention/detection mechanisms
If 'overhead ≫ probability × cost', explicitly decide not to handle it and document the trade-off
Continuously monitor actual losses, and re-enable handling mechanisms if the balance is disrupted.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

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Source support: Explicit

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zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E9%B8%B5%E9%B8%9F%E7%AE%97%E6%B3%95ZH · Explicit
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