I too wonder if certain "unsolvable" problems could be solved by bright minds if presented as something as mundane as "homework". The 4 minute mile was thought

I too wonder if certain "unsolvable" problems could be solved by bright minds if presented as something as mundane as "homework". The 4 minute mile was thought to be impossible for a long time. Then within a year of a it being broken - countless other athletes also ran 4 minute miles because they now knew it was actually possible. It can be surprising just how effective limiting beliefs can be.