Just finished reading the 2001 edition of Gödel's Proof by Ernest Nagel and James Newman, edited by Douglas Hofstadter. This is an excellent introduction to Gödel's Incompleteness Theorem, written in mostly non-technical language—which means that you don't have to be a professional mathematician to (at least mostly) understand it. Though still a challenging read, I'd say it's well worth the …
Practice Notes
Practice Notes: Magic Trick
Imagine ... taking your son or daughter, or niece or nephew, or younger brother or sister to a magic show. One of the acts performed by the magician is the well-known "sawing a lady in half." You and your child-friend watch as the magician opens the coffin-like wooden box, and helps his lovely assistant to lie down in it—with only her head and her feet protruding, on opposite ends. With The …
Couch Of Leaves: Reflections On Power
The Tao can't be perceived. Smaller than an electron, it contains uncountable galaxies. If powerful men and women could remain centered in the Tao, all things would be in harmony. The world would become a paradise. All people would be at peace, and the law would be written in their hearts. When you have names and forms, know that they are provisional. When you have institutions, know …
Precision: Mathematical & Poetic
Spring Song This time of year/place—springtime in the northern hemisphere—easily brings to mind the theme of resurrection. But first it comes to the senses: the warming temperatures and steadily lengthening days; the sight and scent of fragrant blossoms; the lime-green newness squeezing out from seemingly dead branches. It’s glorious! Here’s a poem by Lucille Clifton that—to my …
Art & Science
Flames Wow - What a shock of disbelief and sadness, to see images of the Notre Dame cathedral engulfed in flames. Now of course we know that any phenomenon that appears is destined—at some point—to disappear. But in all kinds of relative contexts, there’s genuine value in preserving/reproducing certain things—and (imo) the Notre Dame cathedral is one of these. In the Hindu triumvirate of …
Light & Mirror
Krishna saw his own self — as the Infinite — In the throng of lovely gopis. They experienced in Krishna, O wonder, Their own self — but as the Absolute. And when, in play, he stole their veils, He wished to see himself in Truth's naked ray. Âtmâ and Mâyâ: light and mirror. God is Love and He loves His image. ~ Frithjof Schuon Playful Reflection In searching for an online version …