What are some insightful quotations about topology?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around seeking insightful quotations related to topology, exploring various perspectives and interpretations of the subject through quotes from notable figures in mathematics and philosophy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a good quotation specifically about topology.
  • Another participant cites Hermann Weyl, highlighting a conflict between topology and abstract algebra in mathematics.
  • A different participant seeks additional quotations focused solely on topology.
  • A link to a collection of quotes about topology is provided by a participant.
  • One participant shares a quote from Edward Witten regarding the nature of space in general relativity, suggesting that while the structure of space can change, its topology remains invariant.
  • A participant questions the relevance of Witten's quote, suggesting it applies broadly beyond topology.
  • Another participant expresses confusion over a quote by Jacques Lacan that relates geometry and topology to concepts of the "Other."
  • A participant references a quote from Leibniz, indicating an early understanding of topology, and includes a quote from Mark Twain that metaphorically relates to adaptability in shapes.
  • One participant invites others to contribute additional quotations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varied interests in quotations about topology, with no consensus on a single quote or interpretation emerging. Multiple perspectives and interpretations are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Some quotes presented may require further context for full understanding, and the relevance of certain quotations to topology may be debated among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the philosophical and historical aspects of topology, as well as those seeking inspiration from notable figures in mathematics and related fields.

mersecske
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Can anyone tell me a good quotation about topology?
 
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"In these days the angel of topology and the devil of abstract algebra fight for the soul of every individual discipline of mathematics." Hermann Weyl.
 
This is interesting, but I need another one, for which the subject is just about topology.
 
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/topology.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I found this, but this is true in any situation (for example BH formation)?

"In Einstein's general relativity the structure of space can change but not its topology. Topology is the property of something that doesn't change when you bend it or stretch it as long as you don't break anything."
(Edward Witten)

And what about the Plank scale?
 
Ed Whitten? Try quoting someone smart!
 
I don't understand this one:

A geometry implies the heterogeneity of locus, namely that there is a locus of the Other. Regarding this locus of the Other, of one sex as Other, as absolute Other, what does the most recent development in topology allow us to posit?

(Jacques Lacan)
 
There is a delicious quote at the beginning of each chapter of Glen Bredon's book "Topology and Geometry". Here is a good one. It is Leibniz talking about topology before topology:

"I believe that we lack another analysis properly geometric or linear which expresses location directly as algebra expresses magnitude." -- Leibniz, 1679, Letter to Huygens

Here is one by Mark Twain:

"A round man cannot be expected to fit in a square hole right away. He must have time to modify his shape." -- Mark Twain

Who has another good one?
 

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