On a side note, I’m not sure what Dawkins believes, but I know that he does indeed extent the concept of biological evolution to encompass other systems like culture and thought. If I remember right, he actually thinks it is an universal phenomena that even applies to physics.
Okay, but just to be clear, those are still different from believing in “evolution” of the truth of the counterfactuals I described. Yes, the thoughts held by people evolve, but that’s not the same thing as believing that “the possibility of biological evolution in a counterfactual sense” evolved.
I’m not sure what you are on about. I’ll read up on the links you provided tomorrow. So bear with me. As I understand it, the whole point is that the laws of physics, or rather what gives rise to them, is equal to the structure we describe as and by the use of mathematics. Our interpretation of these patterns as physics, or living things, are just necessary abstractions drawn by our minds. The territory really is math, our map are the things.
I’m serious on this. I apologize for my naivety in thinking I could participate in such a discussion and for posting this quote in the first place. Reading some of your exchanges, and especially the one between Splat and Steven Landsburg (03 February 2010), opened my eyes about how little I really know and that I’m completely unable to judge any claims being made regarding this topic. Most of it is indeed far over my head. I’ll retreat to further studying, educating myself, and listen and learn what you people have to say. So please ignore my previous comments.
I’m happy that the original quote at least caused some, hopefully enlightening, debate.
Okay, but just to be clear, those are still different from believing in “evolution” of the truth of the counterfactuals I described. Yes, the thoughts held by people evolve, but that’s not the same thing as believing that “the possibility of biological evolution in a counterfactual sense” evolved.
I’m not sure what you are on about. I’ll read up on the links you provided tomorrow. So bear with me. As I understand it, the whole point is that the laws of physics, or rather what gives rise to them, is equal to the structure we describe as and by the use of mathematics. Our interpretation of these patterns as physics, or living things, are just necessary abstractions drawn by our minds. The territory really is math, our map are the things.
Um, any thoughts on reading the past exchanges?
I’m serious on this. I apologize for my naivety in thinking I could participate in such a discussion and for posting this quote in the first place. Reading some of your exchanges, and especially the one between Splat and Steven Landsburg (03 February 2010), opened my eyes about how little I really know and that I’m completely unable to judge any claims being made regarding this topic. Most of it is indeed far over my head. I’ll retreat to further studying, educating myself, and listen and learn what you people have to say. So please ignore my previous comments.
I’m happy that the original quote at least caused some, hopefully enlightening, debate.