Irrational numbers and complex numbers cannot be represented on a number line(Complex numbers can be represented on an argand diagram). These numbers cannot be represented without symbolic representations (like the bar to represent a non-terminating decimal and iota(i) to represent an imaginary or a complex number).

Imaginary numbers seem altogether absurd in the sense that no part of it(I dont know if there's any part) cannot be represented in the rational sense.

Number line, to me, represents a scale on which all rational numbers can be represented. But even there we cannot really pin point the absolute place of rational numbers. Complex numbers are said to exist in a separate plane altogether.

Till now, I dont think we have a proof that complex numbers have a real world existence. They are absurd as far as our intelligence/comprehension is concerned.

We cant even compute the value of pi(one of the most interesting numbers) till now absolutely.

What are the implications of these observations on mathematics? Does it hints on the need to change the language of mathematics from decimal system to some other system?

Can it lead us to believe that whole absolute truth cannot be expressed in rational terms or attained by rational thinking? Since it appears to be just a subset of the whole tangible truth.

go watch the movie "pi"

go watch the movie "pi"
thanks for the recommendation. Now would you give me your opinion on the topic of the thread?

Can it lead us to believe that whole absolute truth cannot be expressed in rational terms or attained by rational thinking? Since it appears to be just a subset of the whole tangible truth.

I already told you that we know this is the case, unless there is some plausible resolution to the liar paradox, such as dialetheism. Godel's theorem proved this much.

This subject is way above my pay scale.

But I'll be keeping an eye on it anyway.

Is reality onionesque? Do you? Do you think that we are just peeling off the layers of onion as Feynman used to say? Do you find this thought disturbing as I do? If not, how do you reconcile with meaninglessness of life? It makes me wonder if its worth pursuing anything.

go watch the movie "pi"

i watched this movie few years ago it was pretty crazy

i've looked at this thread a couple of times...very deep thinking required, but is food for thought. i'm having trouble putting this into perspective.

aman, have you ever heard of the string theory and if so, do you think it might be similar to what you are describing here?

this "public broadcasting station" site was suggested to me many months ago and it may provide some insight, and at the very least, opened my eyes to many possibilities...

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/elegant/

i've looked at this thread a couple of times...very deep thinking required, but is food for thought. i'm having trouble putting this into perspective.

aman, have you ever heard of the string theory and if so, do you think it might be similar to what you are describing here?

this "public broadcasting station" site was suggested to me many months ago and it may provide some insight, and at the very least, opened my eyes to many possibilities...

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/elegant/
I've heard the name but I'm still not acquainted with the idea coz of lack of time. Thanks for the link - These people make realy good documentaries. I'll check it out.

I've heard the name but I'm still not acquainted with the idea coz of lack of time. Thanks for the link - These people make realy good documentaries. I'll check it out.

The doc isn't very good--too cursory. When you get the time read The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene. More in depth.

Is reality onionesque? Do you? Do you think that we are just peeling off the layers of onion as Feynman used to say? Do you find this thought disturbing as I do? If not, how do you reconcile with meaninglessness of life? It makes me wonder if its worth pursuing anything.

I haven't read much of Feynman, so I'm not familiar with what you are referring to.

However, regarding the meaning of life, or lack thereof--it's never really been something that has bothered me much.

Why does it bother you?