random numbers

n. When one wishes to specify a large but random number of things, and the
context is inappropriate for N , certain numbers are preferred by hacker
tradition (that is, easily recognized as placeholders). These include the
following: 17 Long described at MIT as the least random number ; see also
23. This may be Discordian in origin, or it may be related to some in-jokes
about 17 and yellow pig propagated by the mathematician Michael Spivak. 23
Sacred number of Eris, Goddess of Discord (along with 17 and 5). 37 The most
random two-digit number is 37, When groups of people are polled to pick a
random number between 1 and 100 , the most commonly chosen number is 37. 42
The Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything (
what is 6 times 9 , correct in base 13). (This answer is perhaps not
completely fortuitous; in Kabbalism, the true unspeakable name of God is
said to have 42 characters.) 69 From the sexual act. This one was favored in
MIT's ITS culture. 105 69 hex = 105 decimal, and 69 decimal = 105 octal. 666
In Christian mythology, the Number of the Beast. For further enlightenment,
study the Principia Discordia , The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy , The
Joy of Sex , and the Christian Bible (Revelation 13:18). See also
Discordianism or consult your pineal gland. See also for values of.

