The Hedgehog's Dilemma by Kiavik (Italy)




Difficulty: Expert

The hedgehog's dilemma, or sometimes the porcupine dilemma, is a metaphor about the challenges of human intimacy. It describes a situation in which a group of hedgehogs seek to move close to one another to share heat during cold weather. They must remain apart, however, as they cannot avoid hurting one another with their sharp spines. Though they all share the intention of a close reciprocal relationship, this may not occur, for reasons they cannot avoid.

Both Arthur Schopenhauer and Sigmund Freud have used this situation to describe what they feel is the state of the individual in relation to others in society. The hedgehog's dilemma suggests that despite goodwill, human intimacy cannot occur without substantial mutual harm, and what results is cautious behavior and weak relationships. With the hedgehog's dilemma, one is recommended to use moderation in affairs with others both because of self-interest, as well as out of consideration for others. The hedgehog's dilemma is used to explain introversion and isolationism.



Notable Levels by Kiavik:



About the Maker:


Kiavik - is one of the lynchpins of the Mario Maker community. He has been a strong influence on level design, having perfected the first mainstream "escape room" puzzle with Nikki's Puzzling Pictures, while inspiring countless unfortunate Mecha Bowzilla knockoffs. With his levels he's raised the bar on both what and how good a SMM level can be. As the main coordinator of the 1YMM and 2YMM projects, he's helped nurture and give exposure to lesser-known talents while bringing together other exceptional makers from across this diverse community.
Item Reviewed: The Hedgehog's Dilemma by Kiavik (Italy) Description: Rating: 5 Reviewed By: Lantis
Scroll to Top