For Oleg
The imaginary part I[z] of a complex number (z = x + i y) is the real number multiplying i.
So I[ x + i y] = y.
A complex number is said to be purely imaginary if it has no real part, i.e., R [z] = 0.
We actually haven’t got a clue how the laws of physics are embedded in the universe. We know they’re there and we know they’re effected. We don’t know how they are embedded. Almost anything where there are quantities involved there’s a mathematical model.
Here’s your quote. I copied this down. You conceded that if God existed, there might be special reasons for subscribing to morality. But concluded, “Unfortunately, the very concept of God is incoherent. Religion itself is incurably unintelligible.” I mean, is that a kind of attitude that was familiar to you previously as a researcher. Or does it make you think about the limits of science.
I think mathematics can only show that which can be quantified in a model. The universe can’t be limited to a model in this way, because that would be like saying that the universe has a border. If that were the case, what lies beyond the border, if the universe by definition is everything there is? And if we look at “God” as a symbol of a concept, and not as the symbol itself, it is no longer incoherent, unless one were to try and make a mathematical model of it!
“….karma police, arrest this man he talks in maths. He buzzes like a fridge, he’s like a detuned radio….”
…those are Radiohead lyrics by the way…..I thought it was fitting cause I don’t get it……sarcasm is a defense mechanism for the weak…..