[Mathematics too complicated] - A New Kind of Science: The NKS Forum

A New Kind of Science: The NKS Forum

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Mathematics too complicated

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Posted by: Philip Ronald Dutton

NKS claims the body of Mathematical work is too complicated, etc. For example, it is difficult to solve the partial differential equations used in physics. We should be using simple rules, etc. However, when looking at the axiomatic systems which we consider the core foundation, we see relatively simple "rules." According to NKS, simple rules can produce complicated structures/relationships, etc.

Isn't this what we see in the body of Mathematics (complicated relationships emerging from the core simple rules) already? The body of mathematical work seems to be emerging structures/relationships based on simple rule sets (just as NKS claims) yet NKS (the book) sometimes seems to portray that Mathematics is too "messy."

In summary:

Is the body of mathematics too messy or is it simply following NKS theory (complicated structures emerge from simple rules).

Please take your pick.

What is the NKS book's stand on the question? I have read the book and I would say it chooses both.


Posted by: Jason Wesley Ellis

I would say that NKS answers your questions fairly simply. I'm a touch drunk now but I believe that Wolfram answered your questions already in a certain section of his book. Mathematics, just like physics, is a construction, ameneable to alteration through thought and conscience.



Is math "
messy"? NO

Mathematics has traditionally investigated simple, repetitive, or nested rules. NKS has..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................




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