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The concept of a field can be described using mathematics but does that really mean mathematics is actually what the universe is made of? Suppose for example w
by aeternum 6y ago
The concept of a field can be described using mathematics but does that really mean mathematics is actually what the universe is made of?
Suppose for example we found that protons, neutrons, and electrons really were fundamental. Their behavior can be described with mathematics but wouldn't we say it's still the elementary particles that our compose our universe?
- criddell 6y agoTegmark's theory says exactly that - the particles are ultimately mathematics. Not that they can be modeled with mathematical methods, but that they are actually constructed from mathematical structures. It's definitely not a mainstream theory.
- goatlover 6y agoWhat does the mean, though? Mathematics as we understand it is an abstraction. If the universe is fundamentally abstract, what breathes fire into the models? Consciousness?
- wcoenen 6y agoModal realism. A mathematical structure is "real" to its conscious inhabitants (if any), and merely an abstraction from the perspective of those who are not, i.e. the inhabitants of other mathematical structures.