Monday, February 11, 2008

Physics and Philosophy - Thoughts on the Implications of Quantum Mechanics, and Other Matters #3

3. In the beginning of the human quest for reason, science and philosophy were indistinguishable. For want of a better term, this intertwining could be termed curiosity. As time went on, the abstract components of that curiosity evolved into philosophy and certain persuasions of mathematics. The more concrete elements grew into the various branches of science, engineering and the attendant mathematics. Currently, the sciences are demarcated into the broad categories of physical, biological and sociological sciences. In general, the older forks are more widely accepted. Mathematics is thought by many to be embedded in stone. Whereas sociology has found it necessary to develop the sub-field of demography to enjoy scientific legitimacy, and economics is often more akin to religious faith than science,[4] mathematics is thought to convey authority which often means better funding opportunities. Strangely, outside academia and teaching, mathematicians[5] have a difficult time finding work. Perhaps deep inquires are undesirable?

[4] As evidenced by the babbling of either a free market or Marxist ideologue. Determinism is determinism.

[5] Hence, “math, yes; math major, no.”

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