What does it mean when math and reality don't align?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the expression, "the more math makes sense, reality doesn't... and the more reality makes sense, math doesn't." Participants explore its meaning and seek examples that illustrate the relationship between mathematics and reality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the expression and suggests it may indicate that mathematics does not necessarily have to model reality.
  • Another participant references a poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay that relates to the theme of the discussion, highlighting the philosophical aspect of mathematics and reality.
  • A participant thanks another for an explanation related to Euclid, indicating a connection to historical mathematical concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the meaning of the expression, and multiple interpretations are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the relationship between mathematics and reality remain unexplored, and the discussion does not delve into specific examples or definitions that could clarify the expression further.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the philosophical implications of mathematics, the relationship between mathematical theory and real-world applications, or literary references in mathematics may find this discussion relevant.

cangus
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I have heard the expression, "the more math makes sense, reality doesnt... and the more reality makes sense, math doesnt". Can someone give an example of this expression? What does it mean?
 
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I have absolutely no idea- it makes no "sense" to me! But then, I lost touch with reality long ago!

I have never seen nor heard the expression before. It may simply be referring to the fact that mathematics, as such, does not necessarily have to model reality.
 
HallsofIvy

I will really thank you for explanation
to the quote about Euclid’s in your reply

thank you
Moshek
 
It's the title of a poem by Edna St. VIncent Millay:

Euclid alone
Has looked on beauty bare, fortunate they
Who, though once only and then but far away,
have heard her massive sandal set on stone.
 
A nice poem
and thank you matt !

:smile:
 

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