A vector is a vector is a vector

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the phrase "a vector is a vector is a vector," exploring its meaning and implications. Participants reference literary origins and engage in a broader conversation about the nature of vectors, including distinctions between types of vectors.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the phrase is a confusing tautology and request more context for clarity.
  • Others reference the literary origin of the phrase, linking it to Gertrude Stein's work and suggesting it serves as a humorous or rhetorical device.
  • There is a correction regarding the exact wording of Stein's quote, with some participants asserting that the correct phrase is "Rose is a rose is a rose," which they argue has a different meaning.
  • One participant challenges the notion that "a vector is a vector" holds true, pointing out that a column vector is not the same as a row vector.
  • Another participant questions the relevance of the discussion, suggesting that it lacks substantive questions.
  • A later reply acknowledges the value of such discussions for gaining insights, despite the initial critique.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the meaning and relevance of the phrase, with no consensus reached regarding its implications in the context of vectors.

Contextual Notes

Some statements about the nature of vectors and their classifications remain unresolved, with participants expressing varying interpretations and assumptions.

sumesh.pt
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Can anybody explain what does 'a vector is a vector is a vector' mean?
 
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It's a confusingly worded tautology. For a more helpful answer, a little more context is necessary.
 
It's a reference to "a rose is a rose is a rose" from Gertrude Stein's Sacred Emily. It doesn't mean anything other than the author is making a little literary joke.
 
Actually, the correct quote is "Rose is a rose is a rose" which has quite a different meaning.
 
According to wikipedia:
The sentence "Rose is a rose is a rose is a rose." was written by Gertrude Stein as part of the 1913 poem Sacred Emily, which appeared in the 1922 book Geography and Plays. In that poem, the first "Rose" is the name of a woman. Stein later used variations on the phrase in other writings, and "A rose is a rose is a rose" is probably her most famous quote, often interpreted as "things are what they are".​
 
HallsofIvy said:
Actually, the correct quote is "Rose is a rose is a rose" which has quite a different meaning.

See hurkly's post. I'm perfectly aware of what Stein wrote and what people ascribe to her. It is one of the most famous misquotations there is.
 
I stand corrected!

Thank you to both matt grime and Hurkyl.
 
it's not even true, a column vector is not a row vector
 
  • #10
Now, perhaps you're being facetious, but who mentioned the words row or column?
 
  • #11
come on, someone ask a real question, these guys have way to much time on hand.
 
  • #12
mathwonk said:
come on, someone ask a real question, these guys have way to much time on hand.

Hey, this is to mathwonk..dont u thnk such discussions somtime giv a better insight?
 

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