Sep 24 2012: Zero is not nothing. It is simply a mathematical symbol that has many uses in Mathematics and sciences. In linear algebra, zero is simply location on a number line. In Astrophysics, zero refers to starting point in space and time. In space, there may not be any particles and a total vacuum but their are always gravity forces of some kind. Is your question about zero the symbol or a discussion of nothingness?
Sep 24 2012: Do we really understand what learning and creativity are about? For more than four decades I have been studying how we learn and make decisions. An infant is ingrained in the discovery process and learn a great deal about their world the first years of life. Observing my grandchildren as infants and toddlers I have found that each discovery has four stages: Attention – does this thing, animal, sound, taste or smell interest me? Identify – can I categorize this some way with what I already know? Impact – if I play with this what effect does this have – like or hate? Relationship – How do I feel about this thing, etc. in the long run? A baby will go back to a toy or animal frequently to see if it has the same impact the next time reinforces that category, impact and relationship. Doesn’t every decision we make comprise those same four stages from finding a mate to buying an automobile? Does this potential mate attractive to me? Does he/she come from a clan, parish, religion, school, etc. that I like or agree with? Does he/she make me feel good? What will life be life be like for the rest of our lives?
Learning and creativity are bound as yin and yang. An infant is born with a scientific method of discovery. How does this thing that has my attention now taste, smell, sound when I hit it on the floor, or shake it? All the discovery steps help the infant in categorizing, impacting and establishing a relationship. Learning to walk, speak, and feed yourself are taught through a discovery process and reinforced from parents and family.
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A comment on Conversation: Is our math wrong? Is it our assumption of zero, or absolute nothingness?
A comment on Conversation: Is it feasible or desirable to ever completely understand the human brain?
Learning and creativity are bound as yin and yang. An infant is born with a scientific method of discovery. How does this thing that has my attention now taste, smell, sound when I hit it on the floor, or shake it? All the discovery steps help the infant in categorizing, impacting and establishing a relationship. Learning to walk, speak, and feed yourself are taught through a discovery process and reinforced from parents and family.