David Cowles
Sep 1, 2021
Earlier we talked about Zeno. In most minds it is thought that Zeno proved that any tortoise with a head start will always beat Achilles in any foot race. But of course, we know that that is not true…and Zeno knew so too. What Zeno did prove is that we cannot account for Achilles’ victory based on ordinary mathematical assumptions. Achilles wins the race but how does he do it?
Earlier we talked about Zeno. In most minds it is thought that Zeno proved that any tortoise with a head start will always beat Achilles in any foot race. But of course, we know that that is not true…and Zeno knew so too. What Zeno did prove is that we cannot account for Achilles’ victory based on ordinary mathematical assumptions. Achilles wins the race but how does he do it?
It is popular these days to say that modern math (e.g., The Calculus) has debunked Zeno once and for all. But is that true? The 20th century’s 3 most important mathematical discoveries (relativity, quantum mechanics and non-locality) all violate ordinary mathematical assumptions. This the time we should be celebrating Zeno, not dismissing him.
Do you like what you just read and want to read more Thoughts? Subscribe today for free!
- the official blog of Aletheia Today Magazine.
