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reality in which we exist and function has no absolutes. Two "laws"
discovered in the fields of physics and mathematics show this to be true.
In physics, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle shows us that we have limitations
in perceiving the physical reality of which we are a part. We have limits
on what we can absolutely know in physical reality. This is a subtle thing
at the most basic level of physical existence but a very real limit on
absolute knowledge. The other "law", originating in mathematics
and logic, but extensible into all other disciplines such as philosophy,
computer science and artificial intelligence, is Godel's Theorem. In a
rough paraphrase by Eric Hofstadter, "this theorem states that no
formal system capable of rigorous distinctions between truth and falsehood
can ever be both consistent and complete". In my much rougher paraphrase,
there is no system of thinking in which something doesn't come from outside
the system. We are stuck with loose ends and unprovable assumptions. You
can't get there from here. Looking back at the reality which we are permitted
to know, we are blocked at the barrier with
the two apertures beyond which we cannot normally perceive. We cannot
truly know what is on the other side of this barrier. Outside of this
reality is an even greater reality which includes only God knows what
as well as possibly this reality to which we are limited. There are limits
and uncertainties of knowledge and these are built into the basic fabric
and organization of the Reality of which we are integral parts. The existence
field entering and creating this reality contains potential but not
content, Mind but not personal identity.
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