Quote:
Originally Posted by sjastro
On the subject of maths and behind the scenes action.....
Scientists like Paul Davies and the man who should won the Nobel Prize for Physics, Freeman Dyson ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freeman_Dyson) point to idea that if maths is a part of nature which is discovered, then nature possesses an intelligence which may indicate the existence of a Supreme Being.
Regards
Steven |
I have a somewhat different viewpoint on this. Pure mathematics is totally independent of nature. Consider the definition of a prime number and the conjectures and theorems regarding them. Conceptually, these exist regardless of whatever particles and ensuing laws are deemed part of our known Universe. If our theories of the origins and evolution of the Universe change, the pure mathematics remains as an invariant conceptual backdrop. Here the mathematics is discoverable only in the sense that a new conjecture is found or a theorem is proved.
Mathematics that is intimately tied to the physics of our Universe (applied mathematics) can be used to both explain its laws and make predictions. However, incorrect physical assumptions cannot lead to mathematical models which reflect the true Universe. New mathematical concepts may originate to explain physical structures but, in essence, it is only really the physics that is discoverable in the natural sense i.e. as existing in nature. The physics depends on observation and measurement for its confirmation.
Music is another entity which can exist purely in the conscious sphere or the mind. It may rely on physical instruments for propagation but I can "play" a tune mentally without any recourse to the physical world. In fact, people can write the music before they play it out with instruments.
In theory, pure mathematical concepts and music are translatable into any Universe to any sentient conscious being regardless of it's physical particles or the laws it operates under. It is one of the riddles of our Universe that consciousness (involving mental concepts) can evolve from unconscious and mindless matter. Perhaps, consciousness is a gift reflecting the mind of a Supreme Being.
Thus, mathematics is not discoverable as one would discover a physical law or property of nature. To discover mathematics, one need only conceptualize and make mental and logical connections. Nature itself is irrelevant to this invention process.
Regards, Rob.