What Is Infinity? Explained for Beginners

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the concept of infinity, exploring its definitions, implications in mathematics and physics, and whether the universe itself is infinite. Participants share their thoughts on the nature of infinity, its application in various contexts, and the current understanding of the universe's size and expansion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that infinity is a mathematical concept rather than a number, describing it as a quality of a set of numbers.
  • Others argue that the universe may not be infinite, citing that it is expanding and may have a finite volume.
  • A participant mentions that the volume of the universe could be infinite if there is no upper bound to it, while another challenges this by suggesting a reasonable upper bound based on current understanding.
  • Some contributions highlight that infinity can be understood in different contexts, such as in mathematics or physics, where it may refer to limits or distances that are exceedingly large.
  • There are conflicting views on whether the universe started with infinite volume and how that relates to its current state.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the ability to derive new ideas in science without a solid foundational knowledge.
  • Another participant shares a simplified explanation of infinity, suggesting it is a number that can always be exceeded by adding one.
  • Some contributions reflect on the vastness of space and the possibility of other life forms existing in the universe.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the nature of infinity or the size of the universe. Multiple competing views remain, with some asserting that infinity is a concept while others treat it as a number, and differing opinions on the universe's finiteness or infiniteness.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding definitions of infinity, assumptions about the universe's expansion, and the implications of mathematical concepts in physical contexts. Some statements reflect personal interpretations that may not align with established scientific definitions.

  • #31
CRGreathouse said:
Don't foist that term on us. We mathematicians don't claim "infinity" as one of our own -- we have a number of different concepts of infinite for various fields, but no overarching singular noun "infinity".

Whether or not you 'claim' it is irrelevant, the only place it's postulated is in the field of maths, but is meaningless none the less. Somebody's attempt to lend it credence I expect. ;)
 
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  • #32
Don't forget, the universe might be compact!
 
  • #33
In the fictional words of Leto II in the book; God Emperor of Dune, by Frank Herbert: "No infinity exists to be demonstrated"

The word "infinite" is like the integer "0".

"0" represents "no beginning" and "infinite" represents "no end"

They are essentially the same no-thing.

The true meanings of "0" and "infinite" are akin to anti-matter in our minds. They could not exist without destroying us first, which would not allow us to understand because we'd be dead! In the anti-world, "1" and "finite" are switched with "0" and "infinite"
in this paragraph.
 
  • #34
I see no reason to allow this to continue. If you actually want to argue for a philosophical position, then start a thread to do so. (And do it in the philosophy of mathematics forum)
 

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