Constructing Space Without Points: Agree/Disagree?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the philosophical and mathematical implications of defining a point as an entity that occupies no space. Participants argue that constructing space through the addition of points is fundamentally flawed, as points do not contribute to spatial dimensions. The conversation emphasizes that while points are idealized mathematical constructs, they do not exist in the physical world, and space is instead constructed by increasing dimensions. A key takeaway is the importance of adhering to established definitions in physics and mathematics.

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  • Understanding of mathematical definitions of points, lines, and planes
  • Familiarity with dimensionality in geometry
  • Basic knowledge of philosophical implications in mathematics
  • Awareness of the distinction between mathematical abstractions and physical reality
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  • Explore the concept of dimensionality in geometry and its implications for space construction
  • Research the philosophical foundations of mathematical entities and their existence
  • Study the definitions and properties of points, lines, and planes in Euclidean geometry
  • Investigate the relationship between mathematical abstractions and physical phenomena
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Mathematicians, philosophers of mathematics, educators in geometry, and anyone interested in the foundational concepts of space and dimensionality.

Kiki
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For sake of argument, let me define a point as a mathematical entity that occupies no space. Then, how can one hypothetically construct space, through addition of points, when each point contributes no space? Because adding points together consists of merely adding nothing to nothing, the most basic unit of space cannot be a point.

Do you agree or disagree with this? Why?
 
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Points like lines and planes are mathematical concepts, they don't exist precisely in the physical world.

Points are an idealised thing.

You might also consider that a 1 foot long ruler is finite but has infinity points in its length.
 
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Kiki said:
For sake of argument, let me define a point as a mathematical entity that occupies no space. Then, how can one hypothetically construct space, through addition of points, when each point contributes no space? Because adding points together consists of merely adding nothing to nothing, the most basic unit of space cannot be a point.

Do you agree or disagree with this? Why?
You don't get to make your own defintions in physics, when you are using words that already have well specified definitions. Your definition is not incorrect, but should be "... that has no dimensions" not " ... that occupies no space". One does not "construct space though addition of points" so your question is based on a false premise. One constructs space by increasing at least one dimension.
 

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