One day, the Chinese Cinema class were told that they were to have a test on what they have learnt so far this term, particularly theories used to analyse 少林足球. "So when is the test?" one of the student asked.
Teacher replied, "That's up to me. I may have it at any point between now and the end of the term. However, when I do have the test it'll be a surprise!"
After school, Min and Xin were discussing the bad news. Xin was very worried. However Min said," Don't worry Xin, I think the teacher is having a bit of joke at our expense - you see, I don't think there can be a test!"
What reason did Min give?
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There's a flawless reasoning behind Min's belief. She explained that the test cannot be held on the last day of the term, since by then the class will know that it must going to be held and thus, not a surprise. "That's great," said Xin sarcastically. "So it's any day between now and the second last day of the term then."
Min explained patiently,"It can't be the second last day of the term either, because if it can't be on the last day, by the night before second last day we'll know the test is going to be on the second last day. Thus, it can't be on the second last day either!"
Xin got it now, "Nor the third to last day, nor the fourth - nor any day! Haha!"
PS. They don't tell the others, who spend ages trying to memorise the theories to analyse 少林足球 and other movies like 功夫, much to Min and Xin's secret amusement. Then one day, just 4 weeks after the original announcement, the teacher came in and announced the test.
"You can't do this!", said Min.
"Why not?", replied the teacher, surprised.
"Because it's got to be the surprise - and you can only hold the test when we're not expecting it!"
"Yes, but Min, you're not expecting it wat." said the teacher.
PPS. There's no flaw in Min's reasoning, each step and the conclusion is correct. However, unfortunate for students everywhere, it just doesn't work in reality.
Adapted from 101 Philosophy Problems by Martin Cohen
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