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Imparcticle
- 573
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what is the difference between mathematical determinism and scientific determinism?
jimmie said:Oh.
Thanks.
Uhh... am I correct in thinking that the "theory" is the "scientific" part?
Imparcticle said:what is the difference between mathematical determinism and scientific determinism?
No, both of them (experimentation and theory) working together make up the "scientific part".
Well, I think "scientific determinism" embodies empirical evidence whereas mathematical determinism involves deductive evidence. However different, empirical and deductive evidence are made from the same cloth it seems to me and is the reason mathematics is so successful in describing nature. Thus maybe there is some intimate connection between empirical (what's really out there), and deductive evidence. Perhaps this is related to the difference between continuous and non-continuous functions: As long as phenomena are "continuous", then deductive reasoning in some form "matches" empirical evidence. However, as discontinuities and critical points emerge, they diverge.
saltydog said:Perhaps this is related to the difference between continuous and non-continuous functions: As long as phenomena are "continuous", then deductive reasoning in some form "matches" empirical evidence. However, as discontinuities and critical points emerge, they diverge.
HallsofIvy said:I can think of several different ways of interpreting the word 'determinism'. It would help if you would define the meaning here.
Imparcticle said:Can you elaborate on that? What do you mean they diverge?
You are using "deductiive reasoning" and "empirical evidence" together as though they were equivalent...which they are not. Either "deductive reasoning" diverges (whatever you meant by that) with "empirical reasoning" or "deductive evidence" with "empirical evidence". Or does it make a difference, however slight?
note that:
reasoning
The basis or motive for an action, decision, or conviction.
evidence:
A thing or things helpful in forming a conclusion or judgment.
Courtesy of dictionary.com
Mathematical determinism is the belief that all events and outcomes in the universe can be predicted with complete accuracy using mathematical equations and principles. It suggests that the universe operates according to precise and unchanging laws that can be described using mathematical language.
Scientific determinism is the belief that all events and phenomena in the natural world can be explained and predicted by scientific laws and principles. It suggests that the universe operates according to cause-and-effect relationships that can be understood through empirical evidence and experimentation.
The main difference between mathematical and scientific determinism is the approach used to understand and predict events in the universe. Mathematical determinism relies on mathematical equations and principles, while scientific determinism uses empirical evidence and experimentation. Additionally, mathematical determinism is often associated with the physical sciences, while scientific determinism encompasses a wider range of disciplines, including biology, psychology, and sociology.
This is a highly debated topic and there is no clear answer. Some argue that both mathematical and scientific determinism have their strengths and limitations, and neither can fully explain and predict all events in the universe. Others believe that scientific determinism is more accurate as it takes into account the complexity and unpredictability of natural systems. Ultimately, it is up to individual interpretation and belief.
Determinism suggests that all events and outcomes in the universe are predetermined and follow a set of predetermined laws. This can conflict with the idea of free will, which suggests that individuals have the ability to make choices and decisions that are not predetermined by external factors. However, some argue that determinism and free will can coexist, as free will may be seen as a product of the deterministic laws that govern the universe.