[quote=“brmckay, post:703, topic:7931”]
Mathematics is a useful human construct. Humans are not something separate from the Universe, their constructs included.
That argument does not hold. The mathematics of the Universe existed from the very beginning (see Chaos Theory) and created all orderly generic universal mathematical patterns including humans.
Codification and symbolization of generic Universal mathematics are human constructs. You seem to forget that all human mathematics are based on observation of universal properties, values, and functions.
But ask theoretical mathematicians and they will tell you that they are not inventing but discovering the mathematical nature of the universe.
You are overlooking the fact that almost all animate and inanimate patterns are based on generic Universal mathematics . Do you know how many animals use mathematics in their everyday lives, albeit without knowing that they are using maths?
Even plants use the (human dubbed) Fibonacci Sequence, a product of billions of years of natural selection for the most mathematically efficient ordering of tree limbs, flower petals, and any natural vertical growing pattern that requires a balanced growth order. (see p.s. below)
[quote=“brmckay, post:704, topic:7931”]
As for Zero being an important addition to mathematics, I also think that the significance of the equals sign (=) should be considered. Since it indicates an absence of difference that might be helpful in grokking “non-relative infinitude”. (or am I grasping at straws here?)
I have no objection to the term, but I just cannot grasp what it means as compared to the more mundane interpretation of “Universal Geometry”.
I agree that “zero” as a mathematical value is a human invention. In nature zero just means “absence of value”.
But you are wrong in proposing that = means “no difference”.
The human symbol = means “of equal value”, but there can be significant differences in constituent parts
I recommend that you watch this interesting lecture by Roger Antonsen on some of the fundamental properties of mathematics and his sage advise to look at nature from several different (relative) perspectives in order to acquire “deeper understanding” of the Universe and it’s creative properties
Math is the hidden secret to understanding the world | Roger Antonsen - YouTube
(note the physical pattern that emerges from the number 4/3)
And of course there is Max Tegmark, who hypothesized a “Mathematical Universe” (see p.s. below)
Which btw, explains the concept of a creator God by people who misinterpreted the quasi-intelligent behavior of universal mathematical functions as being the product of a sentient agency.
Mathematics = (God minus intent). There is no possible way to tell the difference although the practical creative values are very different.
p.s. For those interested in the Universe and what makes it tick, I can recommend this excellent NOVA presentation.
Nova Science: A new discovery of the great Math Mystery Documentary HD 720p - YouTube