Is math reality or just a proposed description of reality which may falsely describe, or not accurately or fully describe reality? According to some, the fact that 2 + 2 = 4 is proof that math is reality and vice versa. But what about 2 + 2 = 5? One could argue that this is wrong and fits no reality and isn't real. The counter argument is 2 + 2 = 5 is real (like many string theories) in some parallel universe inside a megaverse.
Unfortunately, there is no empirical evidence of parallel universes--only mathematical evidence. Yet, it is argued that mathematical evidence is every bit as valid as empirical evidence. When these two types of evidence disagree, we simply invent a new universe, i.e., a reality where they do agree. Problem solved?
Hmmmm ..., if math is always right somewhere within a megaverse, wouldn't every crackpot idea be right somewhere within a megaverse? For example, our earth isn't flat, but surely there is some parallel universe that contains a flat earth? It looks as though the scientific method becomes a joke if we are allowed to move the goalpost (invent new unobserved universes) when the math or theory is wrong in this universe.
To claim that math is reality is to ignore infinities--that have never been observed or verified--and negative probabilities (predicted by quantum physics math) and all the instances where the math is wrong, or, where the math is approximate. When calculating the area of a circle, who knows and uses the exact value of pi? No one to my knowledge. If we don't know and can't determine the exact value of pi, then how can we say with confidence that it is real? Our math in general is riddled with approximations and error margins. From an empirical standpoint, we have yet to make a perfect measurement of the circumference of an ellipse or calculate it with a perfect value of pi; yet, some argue that math is reality and reality is math.
Give me more time and I will calculate pi. Is math real? Math is as real as relations are. I'm your fellow man, you are there, Atlantic lies between us etc. Math is a system of relations, and these if we accept they are real, then math is also. Number pie is such a relation. A limit, a statement about inequality.
ReplyDeleteIf you calculate pi exactly, then you can at least claim that your pi is the real pi. Until then, it is only in your dreams.
DeleteNumbers are relations. Relations are real. Therefore numbers are real. Most people think just because a number can't be written down it doesn't exist. The Greeks learnt early on the difference between number and quantity. They constructed the numbers they couldn't write down
ReplyDeleteIf all relations are real, there would be no mistakes ever.
DeleteWithin a given situation maths is real.What is true in two dimensional need not be so in higher dimensional settings.
ReplyDeleteWhen your math has an error margin, it is obviously not real because it isn't 100% accurate, it doesn't match reality exactly, only approximately.
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