From: Gerald_A_Levy@MSN.COM
Date: Tue Sep 13 2005 - 08:19:10 EDT
> Perhaps a better question is: Is computation dialectical and vice versa? Hi Ian: Perhaps. And another question: is *calculus* dialectical and vice versa? Recall the debates in recent years about the merit of non-linear mathematical methods in terms of whether they are superior (than linear algebra, for instance) in terms of explaining the subject (capitalism). I.e. what is the math method that can best express the character of capitalism? And another (more basic) question is: *what is dialectical?* I think you are using this term, for instance, in a very different way that those who refer to "systematic dialectics" do. Within the context of *systematic dialectics* (of which Hegelian thought is an example) computation (and algebra and calculus) may have _a_ role, but I am skeptical of a claim that a systematic reconstruction of the subject matter of capitalism in thought can be expressed through any of these math methods. However, computer languages and computation are not my strong suit (a huge understatement!) so I will listen carefully to what others including yourself have to say on this topic. In solidarity, Jerry
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