ToKCast Ep 197: David Deutsch’s ”The Fabric of Reality” Chapter 10 ”The Nature of Mathematics” Part 1: Introduction
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Sep 10, 2023 This podcast episode introduces Chapter 10 of David Deutsch's book 'The Fabric of Reality', challenging assumptions about mathematics and exploring fallibility. It also discusses the concept of the brain as a computer, explores fallibilism and the distinction between abstract and physical entities, and reflects on zeal, evangelism, and critical thinking. The chapter delves into the complexity of physics and mathematics, the incorporation of a deeper theory, and the existence and effects of abstract entities.
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Math's Fallibility
- Mathematics isn't a realm of absolute certainty, but rather a fallible domain of knowledge.
- This challenges the traditional view that math is separate and infallible.
Physics of Math
- David Deutsch connects the fallibility of mathematics to physics through quantum computation.
- Our brains, as physical systems, perform computations subject to error, influencing our mathematical understanding.
Mathematician's Misconception
- Deutsch's later work refines the concept of mathematical fallibility, calling it the "mathematician's misconception."
- This misconception assumes a perfect, platonic realm accessible through intuition.