What are the differences between "infinite" and "eternal"?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinctions between "infinite" and "eternal." "Infinite" refers to a concept with no limits, which can include beginnings, as exemplified by Cantor's countable infinity that starts at 1 and continues indefinitely. In contrast, "eternal" signifies a state that lacks both a beginning and an end, specifically relating to time. Therefore, "eternal" is a more restrictive term than "infinite," as it exclusively pertains to temporal existence.

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  • Understanding of mathematical concepts such as Cantor's countable infinity
  • Familiarity with philosophical terminology regarding time and existence
  • Basic knowledge of the differences between abstract concepts and their applications
  • Awareness of the implications of infinity in various contexts, including mathematics and philosophy
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  • Research the implications of Cantor's set theory in mathematics
  • Explore philosophical discussions on the nature of time and existence
  • Study the concept of limits in mathematics and how they relate to infinity
  • Investigate the historical context of the terms "infinite" and "eternal" in philosophical literature
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Philosophers, mathematicians, students of metaphysics, and anyone interested in the conceptual differences between abstract terms related to time and limits.

Mohd Abdullah
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Hi.

What are exactly the differences between the term "infinite" and "eternal"? Some said the term "infinite" means no end but have beginning/starting for example, Cantor's countable infinity. While Cantor's countable infinity have no end, but we can START begin counting it from 1 and so on without stop.

While "eternal" means no beginning and end, so are the term "eternal" greater than "infinite"? Thoughts?
 
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"Eternal" means "lasts forever", referring to time. "Infinite" means "has no limit", referring to pretty much anything.
 
Mohd Abdullah said:
Hi.

What are exactly the differences between the term "infinite" and "eternal"? Some said the term "infinite" means no end but have beginning/starting for example, Cantor's countable infinity. While Cantor's countable infinity have no end, but we can START begin counting it from 1 and so on without stop.

While "eternal" means no beginning and end, so are the term "eternal" greater than "infinite"? Thoughts?

No, "infinite" CAN mean a beginning but no end, but it does not have to.

As Nick said, "infinite" can refer to most anything including time, space, things, etc, but "eternal" means having no beginning or end and always means in time, not in space.
 

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