Thread: Maths Lingo
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Old 07-10-2009, 03:09 PM
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Robh (Rob)
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Quote:
Originally Posted by sjastro View Post
When pure mathematicians start taking on the role of theoretical physicists the reality component can go missing.

This is highlighted by String Theory. String Theory is not verifiable through experiment or observation.

Steven
You are quite right here. The role of mathematicians, real or applied, should be to help physicists construct models that explain observations. The problem arises when a model can't be constructed to explain all the current observations. It is here that all and sundry start fictionalizing the real world in a haphazard attempt to fluke upon a solution. Quite often these quasi-worlds are just way off the mark. I don't know whether String Theory will improve our understanding of the real world or just end up being a red herring.

Regards, Rob
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