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|
\newcommand{\midheading}[1]{
{ \vskip 1em \centering \large \textsc{#1} \par \vskip 1em }}
\newcommand{\sysname}[1]{\enquote{\textsc{#1}}}
\chapter{Post-Formalism in Constructed Memories}
\section{Post-Formalist Mathematics}
Over the last hundred years, a philosophy of pure mathematics has
grown up which I prefer to call \enquote{formalism.} As Willard Quine says in the
fourth section of his essay "Carnap and Logical Truth,' formalism was
inspired by a series of developments which began with non-Euclidian
geometry. Quine himself is opposed to formalism, but the formalists have
found encouragement in Quine's own book, \booktitle{Mathematical Logic}. The best
presentation of the formalist position can be found in Rudolph Carnap's
\booktitle{The Logical Syntax of Language}. As a motivation to the reader, and
as a heuristic aid, I will relate my study to these two standard books. (It will
heip if the reader is thoroughly familiar with them.) it is not important
whether Carnap, or Quine, or formalism---or my interpretation of them---is
\enquote{correct,} for this essay is neither history nor philosophy. I am using history
as a bridge, to give the reader access to some extreme mathematical
innovations.
The formalist position goes as follows. Pure mathematics is the
manipulation of the meaningless and arbitrary, but typographically
well-defined ink-shapes on paper `$w$,' `$x$,' `$y$,' `$z$,' `${}'$,' `$($,' `$)$,' `$\downarrow$,' and `$\in$.'
These shapes are manipulated according to arbitrary but well-detined
mechanical rules. Actually, the rules mimic the structure of primitive
systems such as Euclid's geometry. There are formation rules, mechanical
definitions of which concatenations of shapes are \enquote{\term{sentences}.} One sentence
is `$((x) (x\in x) \downarrow (x) (x\in x))$.' There are transformation rules, rules for the
mechanical derivation of sentences from other sentences. The best known
trasformation rule is the rule that $\psi$ may be concluded from $\varphi$ and
$\ulcorner \varphi \supset \psi \urcorner$;
where `$\supset$' is the truth-functional conditional. For later convenience, I will
say that $\varphi$ and $\ulcorner \varphi \supset \psi \urcorner$ are \enquote{\term{impliors},}
and that $\psi$ is the \enquote{\term{implicand}.}
Some sentences are designated as \enquote{\term{axioms}.} A \enquote{\term{proof}} is a series of
sentences such that each is an axiom or an implicand of preceding sentences.
The last sentence in a proof is a \enquote{\term{theorem}.}
This account is ultra-simplified and non-rigorous, but it is adequate for
my purposes. (The reader may have noticed a terminological issue here. For
Quine, an implication is merely a logically true conditional. The rules which
are used to go from some statements to others, and to assemble proofs, are
rules of inference. The relevant rule of inference is the \term{modus ponens};\editornote{i.e., "$P$ implies $Q$. $P$ is true. Therefore, $Q$ must also be true."} $\psi$ is
the ponential of $\varphi$ and $\ulcorner \varphi \supset \psi \urcorner$. What I
am doing is to use a terminology of
implication to talk about rules of inference and ponentials. The reason is
that the use of Quine's terminology would result in extremely awkward
formulations. What I will be doing is sufficiently transparent that it can be
translated into Quine's terminology if necessary. My results will be
unaffected.) The decisive feature of the arbitrary game called \enquote{mathematics}
is as follows. A sentence-series can be mechanically checked to determine
whether it is a proof. But there is no mechanical method for deciding
whether a sentence is a theorem. Theorems, or rather their proofs, have to be
puzzled out, to be discovered. in this feature lies the dynamism, the
excitement of traditional mathematics. Traditional mathematical ability is
the ability to make inferential discoveries.
A variety of branches of mathematics can be specialized out from the
basic system. Depending on the choices of axioms, systems can be
constructed which are internally consistent, but conflict with each other. A
system can be \enquote{interpreted,} or given a meaning within the language of a
science such as physics. So interpreted, it may have scientific value, or it may
not. But as pure mathematics, all the systems have the same arbitrary status.
By \enquote{formalist mathematics} I will mean the present mathematical
systems which are presented along the above lines. Actually, as many authors
have observed, the success of the non-Euclidian \enquote{imaginary} geometries
made recognition of the game-like character of mathematics inevitable.
Formalism is potentially the greatest break with tradition in the history of
mathematics. In the \essaytitle{Foreward} to \booktitle{The Logical Syntax of Language}, Carnap
brilliantly points out that mathematical innovation is still hindered by the
widespread opinion that deviations from mathematical tradition must be
justified---that is, proved to be \enquote{correct} and to be a faithful rendering of
\enquote{the true logic.} According to Carnap, we are free to choose the rules of a
mathematical system arbitrarily. The striving after correctness must cease, so
that mathematics will no longer be hindered. \enquote{\emph{Before us lies the boundless
ocean of unlimited possibilities.}} In other words, Carnap, the most reputable
of academicians, says you can do anything in mathematics. Do not worry
whether whether your arbitrary game corresponds to truth, tradition, or
reality: it is still legitimate mathematics. Despite this wonderful \uline{Principle of
Tolerance} in mathematics, Carnap never ventured beyond the old
ink-on-paper, axiomatic-deductive structures. I, however, have taken Carnap
at his word. The result is my \enquote{post-formalist mathematics.} I want to stress
that my innovations have been legitimized in advance by one of the most
reputable academic figures of the twentieth century.
Early in 1961, I constructed some systems which went beyond
formalist mathematics in two respects.
\begin{enumerate}[label=\arabic*.,nosep,itemsep=0.5em]
\item My sentential elements are physically different from the little ink-shapes on paper used in all formalist systems. My sentences are physically different from concatenations of ink-shapes. My transformation rules have nothing to do with operations on ink-shapes.
\item My systems do not necessarily follow the axiomatic-deductive,
sen\-ten\-ce-implication-axiom-proof-theorem structure.
\end{enumerate}
\vskip 0.5em
Both of these
possibilities, by the way, are mentioned by Carnap in \essaytitle{Languages as
Calculi.}\editornote{Also in \booktitle{The Logical Syntax of Language}.} A \enquote{post-formalist system,} then, is a formalist system which differs
physically from an ink-on-paper system, or which lacks the
axiomatic-deductive structure.
As a basis for the analysis of post-formalist systems, a list of structural
properties of formalist systems is desirable. Here is such a list. By
\enquote{implication} I will mean simple, direct implication, unless I say otherwise.
\vskip 0.5em
\begin{enumerate}[nosep, itemsep=0.5em]
\item A sentence can be repeated at will.
\item The rule of implication refers to elements of sentences: sentences
are structurally composite.
\item A sentence can imply itself.
\item The repeat of an implior can imply the repeat of an implicand: an
implication can be repeated.
\item Different impliors can imply different implicands.
\item Given two or three sentences, it is possible to recognize
mechanically whether one or two directly imply the third.
\item No axiom is implied by other, different axioms.
\item The definition of \enquote{proof} is the standard definition, in terms of
implication, given early in this essay.
\item Given the axioms and some other sentence, it is not possible to
recognize mechanically whether the sentence is a theorem.
Compound indirect implication is a puzzle.
\end{enumerate}
\vskip 0.5em
Now for the first post-formalist system.
\midheading{\sysname{Illusions}}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is the page (page \pageref{illusions}, with figure \ref{illusions} on it) so long as the
apparent, perceived ratio of the length of the vertical line to that
of the horizontal line (the statement's \enquote{associated ratio}) does not
change. (Two sentences are the \enquote{same} if end only if their
associated ratios are the same.)
A sentence $Y$ is \term{implied by} a sentence $X$ if and only if $Y$ is the same as $X$,
or else $Y$ is, of all the sentences one ever sees, the sentence having
the associated ratio next smaller than that of $X$.
Take as the \term{axiom} the first sentence one sees.
\emph{Explanation}: The figure is an optical illusion such that the vertical line
normally appears longer than the horizontal line, even though their
lengths are equal. One can correct one's perception, come to see
the vertical line as shorter relative to the horizontal line, decrease
the associated ratio, by measuring the lines with a ruler to convince
oneself that the vertical line is not longer than the other, and then
trying to see the lines as equal in length; constructing similar
figures with a variety of real (measured) ratios and practicing
judging these ratios; and so forth.
\end{sysrules}
\begin{figure}[p]
{\centering \includegraphics[width=4in]{img/illusions} \par}
\caption{The sentence for \sysname{Illusions}.}
\label{illusions}
\end{figure}
\sysname{Illusions} has Properties 1, 3--5, and 7--8. Purely to clarify this fact, the
following sequence of integers is presented as a model of the order in which
associated ratios might appear in reality. (The sequence is otherwise totally
inadequate as a model of \sysname{Illusions.}) $4\medspace2\medspace1$; $4\medspace2$; $5\medspace4\medspace2\medspace1$; $4\medspace3\medspace1$. The
implication structure would then be as shown in figure \ref{illusionstructure}.
\begin{figure}
{\centering \includegraphics[width=4.5in]{img/illusionstructure} \par}
\caption{Example implication structure for \sysname{Illusions}.}
\label{illusionstructure}
\end{figure}
The axiom would be 4, and 5 could not appear in a proof. \sysname{Illusions} has
Property 1 on the basis that one can control the associated ratio. Turning to
Property 4, it is normally the case that when an implication is repeated, a
given occurrence of one of the sentences involved is unique to a specific
occurrence of the implication. In \sysname{Illusions,} however, if two equal
sentences are next smaller than X, the occurrence of X does not uniquely
belong to either of the two occurrences of the implication. Compare figure \ref{thestructure},
where the occurrence of `$t$' is not unique to either occurrence of `$the$'.
Subject to this explanation, \sysname{Illusions} has Property 4. \sysname{Illusions} has
Property 8, but it goes without saying that the type of implication is not
\term{modus ponens}. Properties 3, 5, and 7 need no comment. As for Property 2,
the rule of implication refers to a property of sentences, rather than to
elements of sentences. The interesting feature of \sysname{Illusions} is that it
reverses the situation defined by Properties 6 and 9. Compound indirect
implication is about the same as simple implication. The only difference is
the difference between being smaller and being next smaller. And there is
only one axiom (per person).
\begin{figure}
{\centering \setlength\tabcolsep{0.25em}
\begin{tabular}{c c c} t & h & e \\ h & & \\ e & & \end{tabular} \par}
\caption{Structure with shared node.}
\label{thestructure}
\end{figure}
Simple direct implication, however, is subjective and illusive. It
essentially involves changing one's perceptions of an illusion. The change of
associated ratios is subjective, elusive, and certainly not numerically
measurable. Then, the order in which one sees sentences won't always be
their order in the implications and proofs. And even though one is exposed
to all the sentences, one may have difficulty distinguishing and remembering
them in consciousness. If I see the normal illusion, then manage to get
myself to see the lines as being of equal length, I know I have seen a
theorem. What is difficult is grasping the steps in between, the simple direct
implications. If the brain contains a permanent impression of every sensation
it has received, then the implications objectively exist; but they may not be
thinkable without neurological techniques for getting at the impressions. In
any case, \enquote{proof} is well-defined in some sense---but proofs may not be
thinkable. \sysname{Illusions} is, after all, not so much shakier in this respect than
even simple arithmetic, which contains undecidable sentences and
indefinable terms.
In \booktitle{The Logical Syntax of Language}, Carnap distinguishes pure syntax
and descriptive syntax; and says that pure syntax should be independent of
notation, and that every system should be isomorphic to some ink-on-paper
system. In so doing, Carnap violates his own \uline{Principle of Tolerance}. Consider
the following trivial formalist system.
\midheading{\enquote{Order}}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is a member of a finite set of integers.
Sentence Y is \term{implied by} sentence X if and only if Y=X, or else of all the
sentences, Y is the one next smaller than X.
Take as the \term{axiom} the largest sentence.
\end{sysrules}
Is the pure syntax of \sysname{Illusions} isomorphic to \sysname{Order}? The preceding
paragraph proved that it is not. The implication structure of \sysname{Order} is
mechanical to the point of idiocy, while the implication structure of
\sysname{Illusions} is, as I pointed out, elusive. Figure \ref{orderstruc}
where loops indicate multiple occurances of the same sentence, could
adequately represent a proof in \enquote{Order,} but could not remotely represent
one in \sysname{Illusions.} The essence of \sysname{Illusions} is that it is coupled to the
reader's subjectivity. For an ink-on-paper system even to be comparable to
\sysname{Illusions,} the subjectivity would have to be moved out of the reader and
onto the paper. This is utterly impossible.
\begin{figure}
{\centering \includegraphics[width=4.5in]{img/orderstructure} \par}
\caption{Implication structure of \sysname{Order}.}
\label{orderstruc}
\end{figure}
Here is the next system.
\midheading{\sysname{Innperseqs}}
\begin{sysrules}
\emph{Explanation}: Consider the rainbow halo which appears to surround a small
bright light when one looks at it through fogged glass (such as
eyeglasses which have been breathed on). The halo consists of
concentric circular bands of color. As the fog evaporates, the halo
uniformly contracts toward the light. The halo has a vague outer
ring, which contracts as the halo does. Of concern here is what
happens on one contracting radius of the halo, and specifically
what happens on the segment of that radius lying in the vague
outer ring: the outer segment.
A \term{sentence} (or \term{halopoint}) is the changing halo color at a fixed point, in
space, in the halo; until the halo contracts past the point.
Several sentences \term{imply} another sentence if and only if, at some instant,
the several sentences are on an outer segment, and the other
sentence is the inner endpoint of that outer segment.
An \term{axiom} is a sentence which is in the initial vague outer ring (before it
contracts), and which is not an inner endpoint.
An \term{innperseq} is a sequence of sequences of sentences on one radius
satisfying the following conditions.
\begin{enumerate}
\item The members of the first sequence are axioms,
\item For each of the other sequences, the first member is implied by the non-first members of the preceding sequence; and the remaining members (if any) are axioms or first members of preceding sequences.
\item All first members, of sequences other than the last two, appear as non-first members.
\item No sentence appears as a non-first member more than once.
\item The last sequence has one member.
\end{enumerate}
\end{sysrules}
\newcommand{\innprow}[4]{
\parbox{2.25in}{
\parbox{0.35in}{\includegraphics[scale=0.25]{img/time#1}}
\parbox{0.5in}{#2:}
\parbox{1.25in}{
\parbox{1.25in}{#3}
\parbox{1.25in}{#4}}}\vskip 0.5em}
\begin{figure}
{\centering
\parbox{0.15in}{\rotatebox[origin=c]{90}{\
{\footnotesize Successive bands represent the vague outer ring at successive times as it fades in toward the small bright light.}}}\begin{minipage}{1.5in}
\imgw{1.3in}{img/innperseqs}\vskip 0.1em {\centering\small small bright light \par}
\end{minipage}\begin{minipage}{2in}
\enquote{Sentences} at
\vskip 1em
\innprow{1}{$time_1$}{$a_1 a_2 a_3 a_4 a_5 a_6 a_7 b$}{$a_1,a_2 \rightarrow\ b$}
\innprow{2}{$time_2$}{$a_2 a_3 a_4 a_5 a_6 a_7 b c$}{$a_3 \rightarrow\ c$}
\innprow{3}{$time_3$}{$a_4 a_5 a_6 a_7 b c d$}{$a_4,a_5 \rightarrow\ d$}
\innprow{4}{$time_4$}{$a_6 a_7 b c d e$}{$a_6,b \rightarrow\ e$}
\innprow{5}{$time_5$}{$a_7 b c d e f$}{$a_7,c \rightarrow\ f$}
\innprow{6}{$time_6$}{$c d e f g$}{$d,e \rightarrow\ g$}
\vskip 2em
\enquote{Axioms} \\
\hskip 1em $a_1 a_2 a_3 a_4 a_5 a_6 a_7$
\vskip 2em
Innperseq \\
$(a_3,a_2,a_1)$ \\
$(b,a_3)$ \\
$(c,a_5,a_4)$ \\
$(d,b,a_6)$ \\
$(e,c,a_7)$ \\
$(f,e,d)$ \\
$(g)$
\end{minipage}\par}
\vskip 1em
\caption{Example instance of \sysname{Innperseqs.}}
\label{innperdiag}
\end{figure}
In diagram \ref{innperdiag}, different positions of the vague outer
ring at different times are suggested by different shadings. The
outer segment moves \enquote{down the page.} The figure is by no means
an innperseq, but is supposed to help explain the definition.
In \sysname{Innperseqs,} a conventional proof would be redundant unless all
the statements were on the same radius. And even if the weakest axiom were
chosen (the initial outer endpoint), this axiom would imply the initial inner
endpoint, and from there the theorem could be reached immediately. In
other words, to use the standard definition of \enquote{\term{proof}} in \sysname{Innperseqs}
would result in an uninteresting derivation structure. Thus, a more
interesting derivation structure is defined, the \enquote{\term{innperseq.}} The interest of
an \enquote{\term{innperseq}} is to be as elaborate as the many restrictions in its definition
will allow. Proofs are either disregarded in \sysname{Innperseqs}; or else they are
identified with innperseqs, and lack Property 8. \sysname{Innperseqs} makes the
break with the proof-theorem structure of formalist mathematics.
Turning to simple implication, an implicand can have many impliors;
and there is an infinity of axioms, specified by a general condition. The
system has Property 1 in the sense that a sentence can exist at different
times and be a member of different implications. It has Property 4 in the
sense that the sentences in a specific implication can exist at different times,
and the implication holds as long as the sentences exist. It has Property 3 in
that an inner endpoint implies itself. The system also has Properties 5 and 7;
and lacks Property 2. But, as before, Properties 6 and 9 are another matter.
Given several sentences, it is certainly possible to tell mechanically whether
one is implied by the others. But when are you given sentences? If one can
think the sentences, then relating them is easy---but it is difficult to think the
sentences in the first place, even though they objectively exist. The diagram
suggests what to look for, but the actual thinking, the actual sentences are
another matter. As for Property 9, when \term{theorems} are identified with last
members of innperseqs, I hesitate to say whether a derivation of a given
sentence can be constructed mechanically. If a sentence is nearer the center
than the axioms are, an innperseq can be constructed for it. Or can it? The
answer is contingent. \sysname{Innperseqs} is indeterminate because of the difficulty
of thinking the sentences, a difficulty which is defined into the system. It is
the mathematician's capabilities at a particular instant which delimit the
indeterminacies. Precisely because of the difficulty of thinking sentences, I
will give several subvariants of the system.
\midheading{Indeterminacy}
\begin{sysrules}
A \enquote{\term{totally determinate innperseq}} is an innperseq in which one thinks all the
sentences.
An \enquote{\term{implior-indeterminate innperseq}} is an innperseq in which one thinks
only each implicand and the outer segment it terminates.
A \enquote{\term{sententially indeterminate innperseq}} is an innperseq in which one thinks
only the outer segment, and its inner endpoint, as it progresses inward.
\end{sysrules}
Let us return to the matter of pure and descriptive syntax. The interest
of \sysname{Illusions} and \sysname{Innperseqs} is precisely that their abstract structure
cannot be separated from their physical and psychological character, and
thus that they are not isomorphic to any conventional ink-on-paper system. I
am trying to break through to unheard of, and hopefully significant, modes
of implication; to define implication structures (and derivation structures)
beyond the reach of past mathematics.
\clearpage
\section{Constructed Memory Systems}
In order to understand this section, it is necessary to be thoroughly
familiar with \essaytitle{Studies in Constructed Memories,} the essay following this
one. (I have not combined the two essays because their approaches are too
different.) I will define post-formalist systems in constructed memories,
beginning with a system in an $M^*$-Memory.
\midheading{\enquote{Dream Amalgams}}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is a possible method, an $A_{a_i}$. with respect to an $M^*$-Memory.
The sentence $A_{a_p}$ \enquote{\term{implies}} the sentence $A_{a_q}$ if and only if the $a_q$th
$M^*$-assertion is actually thought; and either $A_{a_q} = A_{a_p}$, or else there is
cross-method contact of a mental state in $A_{a_q}$ with a state in $A_{q_p}$\footnote{sic?}
The \term{axioms} must be chosen from sentences which satisfy two conditions.
The mental states in the sentences must have cross-method contact
with mental states in other sentences. And the $M^*$-assertions
corresponding to the sentences must not be thought.
\emph{Explanation}: As \essaytitle{Studies in Constructed Memories} says, there can be
cross-method contact of states, because a normal dream can
combine totally different episodes in the dreamer's life into an
amalgam.
\end{sysrules}
\sysname{Dream Amalgams} has Properties 1--5. For the first time, sentences are
structurally composite, with mental states being the relevant sentential
elements. Implication has an unusual character. The traditional type of
implication, modus ponens, is \enquote{directed,} because the conditional is
directed. Even if $\ulcorner\varphi\supset\phi\urcorner$ is true
$\ulcorner\phi\supset\varphi\urcorner$ may not be. Now implication is also
directed in \sysname{Dream Amalgams,} but for a very different reason.
Cross-method contact, unlike the conditional, has a symmetric character.
What prevents implication from being necessarily symmetrical is that the
implicand's $M^*$-assertion actually has to be thought, while the implior's
$M^*$-assertion does not. Thus, implication is both subjective and mechanical,
it is subjective, in that it is a matter of volition which method is remembered
to have actually: been used. It is mechanical, in that when one is
remembering, one is automatically aware of the cross-method contacts of
states in $A_{a_q}$. The conditions on the axioms ensure that they will have
implications without losing Property 7.
As for compound implication in \sysname{Dream Amalgams,} the organism
with the $M^*$-Memory can't be aware of it at all; because it can't be aware
that at different times it remembered different methods to be the one
actually used. (In fact, the organism cannot be aware that the system has
Property 5, for the same reason.) On the other hand, to an outside observer
of the $M^*$-Memory, indirect implication is not only thinkable but
mechanical. It is not superfluous because cross-method contact of mental
states is not necessarily transitive. The outside observer can decide whether a
sentence is a theorem by the following mechanical procedure. Check
whether the sentence's $M^*$-assertion has acually been thought; if so, check all
sentences which imply it to see if any are axioms; if not, check all the
sentences which imply the sentences which imply it to see if any are axioms;
etc. The number of possible methods is given as finite, so the procedure is
certain to terminate. Again, an unprecedented mode of implication has been
defined.
When a post-formalist system is defined in a constructed memory, the
discussion and analysis of the system become a consequence of constructed
memory theory and an extension of it. Constructed memory theory, which
is quite unusual but still more or less employs deductive inference, is used to
study post-formalist modes of inference which are anything but deductive.
To aid in understanding the next system, which involves infalls in a
$D$-Memory, here is an
{ \vskip 1.5em \centering \large \framebox[1.1\width]{\enquote{Exercise to be Read Aloud}} \par\vskip 1.5em}
(Read according to a timer, reading the first word at 0' 0", and prolonging
and spacing words so that each sentence ends at the time in parentheses after
it. Do not pause netween sentences.)
\vskip 1em
\begin{tabular}{ r p{2.5in} }
($event_1$) & All men are mortal. (17") \\
($Sentence_1=event_2$) & The first utterance lasted 17" and ended at 17"; and lasted 15" and ended 1" ago. (59") \\
($S_2=event_3$) & The second utterance lasted 42" and ended at 59": and lasted 50" and ended 2" ago. (1' 31") \\
($S_3=event_4$) & The third utterance lasted 32" and ended at 1' 31"; and lasted 40" and ended 1" ago. (2' 16") \\
\end{tabular}
\vskip 1em
Since '32' in $S_3$ is greater than '2' in $S_2$, $S_2$ must say that $S_1$ ($=event_2$)
ended 30" after $S_2$ began, or something equally unclear. The duration of $S_2$
is greater than the distance into the past to which it refers. This situation is
not a real infall, but it should give the reader some intuitive notion of an
infall.
{
\clearpage %TODO shitty hacky way to get this unbroken
\midheading{\enquote{Infalls}}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is a $D$-sentence, in a D-Memory such that $event_{j+1}$ is the first
thinking of the $j$th $D$-sentence, for all $j$.
Two sentences \enquote{imply} another if and only if all three are the same; or else
the three are adjacent (and can be written $S_{j+1},S_j,S_{j-1}$), and are such
that $\delta_j=x_{j+1}-x_j> z_j,$ $S^D_{j-1}$ is the implicand. (The function of $S_{j+1}$ is to
give the duration $\delta_j=x_{j+1}-x_j$ of $S_j$. $S_j$ states that $event_j$, the first
thinking of $S^{D}_{j-1}$, ended at a distance $z_j$ into the past, where $z_j$ is smaller
than $S^D_j$'s own duration. Diagram \ref{infallsdiag} indicates the relations.)
\end{sysrules}
}
\begin{figure}
\centering
\includegraphics[width=4in]{img/infallsdiag}
\caption{Implication structure of example $D$-Memory infalls.}
\label{infallsdiag}
\end{figure}
In this variety of $D$-Memory, the organism continuously thinks successive
$D$-sentences, which are all different, just as the reader of the above exercise
continuously reads successive and different sentences. Thus, the possibility
of repeating a sentence depends on the possibility of thinking it while one is
thinking another sentence---a possibility which may be far-fetched, but which
is not explicitly excluded by the definition of a \enquote{$D$-Memory.} If the
possibility is granted, then \sysname{Infalls} has Properties 1--5. Direct implication is
completely mechanical; it is subjective only in that the involuntary
determination of the $z_j$ and other aspects of the memory is a \enquote{subjective}
process of the organism. Compound implication is also mechanical to an
outside observer of the memory, but if the organism itself is to be aware of
it, it has to perform fantastic feats of multiple thinking.
\sysname{Dream Amalgams} and \sysname{Infalls} are systems constructed with
imaginary elements, systems whose \enquote{notation} is drawn from an imaginary
object or system. Such systems have no descriptive syntax. Imaginary objects
were introduced into mathematics, or at least into geometry, by Nicholas
Lobachevski, and now I am using them as a notation. For these systems to
be nonisomorphic to any ink-on-paper systems, the mathematician must be
the organism with the $M^*$-Memory or the $D$-Memory. But this means that
in this case, the mathematics which is nonisomorphic to any ink-on-paper
system can be performed only in an imaginary mind.
Now for a different approach. Carnap said that we are free to choose
the rules of a system arbitrarily. Let us take Carnap literally. I want to
construct more systems in constructed memories---so why not construct the
system by a procedure which ensures that constructed memories are
involved, but which is otherwise arbitrary? Why not suspend the striving
after \enquote{interesting} systems, that last vestige of the striving after
\enquote{correctness,} and see what happens? Why not construct the rules of a
system by a chance procedure?
To construct a system, we have to fill in the blanks in the following rule
schema in such a way that grammatically correct sentences result.
\newcommand{\blankspace}{\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_}
\midheading{Rule Schema}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is a(n) \blankspace.
Two sentences \term{imply} a third if and only if the two sentences \blankspace\ the third.
An \term{axiom} is a sentence that \blankspace.
\end{sysrules}
I now spread the pages of \essaytitle{Studies in Constructed Memories} on the floor.
With eyes closed, I hold a penny over them and drop it. I open my eyes and
copy down the expressions the penny covers. By repeating this routine, I
obtain a haphazard series of expressions concerning constructed memories. It
is with this series that I will fill in the blanks in the rule schema. In the next
stage, I fill the first (second, third) blank with the ceries of expressions
preceding the-first (second, third) period in the entire series.
\midheading{\sysname{Haphazard System}}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is a the duration $D$-sentences $\triangle\ (\mathparagraph^m)$ conclude these
\enquote{$\Phi^*$-Reflec\-tion,} or the future Assumption voluntarily force of
conviction for conclusion the Situation or by ongoing that this
system? be given telling between the Situation 1.
Two sentences \term{imply} a third if and only if the two sentences is\slash was
contained not have to the acceptance that a certain and malleable
study what an event involves material specifically mathematics:
construct accompanies the rest, extra-linguistically image organism
can fantasy not remembering $\Phi^*$-Memory, the future interval defined
in dream the third.
An \term{axiom} is a sentence that internally D-sentences, just as the
\enquote{$\Phi^*$-Memory} sentences $A_{a_1}$ is $A_{a_2}$.
In the final stage, I cancel the smallest number of words I have to in
order to make the rules grammatical.
\end{sysrules}
\midheading{\sysname{Fantasied Amnesia}}
\begin{sysrules}
A \term{sentence} is a duration or the future force of conviction for the Situation
or this system given Situation 1.
Two sentences \term{imply} a third if and only if the two sentences have the
acceptance that a certain and malleable study extra-linguistically can
fantasy not remembering the future interval defined in the third.
An \term{axiom} is a sentence that internally just sentences $A_{a_2}$.
\end{sysrules}
It becomes clear in thinking about \sysname{Fantasied Amnesia} that its
metametamathematics is dual. Describing the construction of the rules, the
metamathematics, by a systematic performance, is one thing. Taking the
finished metamathematics at face value, independently of its origin, and
studying it in the usual manner, is another. Let us take \sysname{Fantasied Amnesia}
at face value. As one becomes used to its rules, they become somewhat more
meaningful. I will say that an \enquote{interpretation} of a haphazard system is an
explanation of its rules that makes some sense out of what may seem
senseless. \enquote{Interpreting} is somewhat like finding the conditions for the
existence of a constructed memory which seemingly cannot exist. The first
rule of \sysname{Fantasied Amnesia} is a disjunction of three substantives. The
\enquote{Situation} referred to in the second substantive expression is either
Situation 1 or else an unspecified situation. The third substantive expression
apparently means \enquote{this system, assuming Situation 1,} and refers to
\sysname{Fantasied Amnesia} itself. The definition of \enquote{sentence} is thus meaningful,
but very bizarre. The second rule speaks of \enquote{the acceptance} as if it were a
written assent. The rule then speaks of a \enquote{malleable study} as \enquote{fantasying}
something. This construction is quite weird, but let us try to accept it. The
third rule speaks of a sentence that \enquote{sentences} (in the legal sense) a possible
method. So much for the meaning of the rules.
Turning to the nine properties of formalist systems, the reference to
\enquote{the future interval} in the implication rule of \sysname{Fantasied Amnesia}
indicates that the system has Property 2; and the system can perfectly well
have Property 8. It does not have Property 6 in any known sense. Certainly
it does have Property 9. it just might have Property 1. But as for the other
four properties, it seems out of the question to decide whether \sysname{Fantasied
Amnesia} has them. For whatever it is worth, \sysname{Fantasied Amnesia} is on
balance incomparable to formalist systems.
My transformation rule schema has the form of a biconditional, in
which the right-hand clause is the operative one. If a transformation rule were to
vary, in such a way that it could be replaced by a constant rule whose right-hand
clause was the disjunction of the various right clauses for the variable rule,
then the latter would vary \enquote{trivially.} I will say that a system whose
transformation rule can vary non-trivially is a \enquote{heterodeterminate} system.
Since I have constructed a haphazard metamathematics, why not a
heterodeterminate metamathematics? Consider a mathematician with an
$M$-Memory, such that each $A_{a_i}$. is the consistent use of a different
transformation rule, a different definition of \enquote{imply,} for the mathematics
in which the mathematician is discovering theorems. The consistent use of a
transformation rule is after all a method---a method for finding the
commitments premisses make, and for basing conclusions in premisses. When
the mathematician goes to remember which rule of inference he has actually
been using, he \enquote{chooses} which of the possible methods is remembered to
have actually been used. This situation amounts to a heterodeterminate
system. In fact, the metamathematics cannot even be written out this time; I
can only describe it metametamathematically in terms of an imaginary
memory.
We are now in the realm of mathematical systems which cannot be
written out, but can only be described metametamathematically. I will
present a final system of this sort. It is entitled \sysname{System Such That No One
Knows What's Going On.} One just has to guess whether this system exists,
and if it does what it is like.\editornote{The appendix contains a presentation of this work.} The preceding remark is the
metametamathematical description, or definition, of the system.
\subsection{Epilogue}
Ever since Carnap's Principle of Tolerance opened the floodgates to
arbitrariness in mathematics, we have been faced with the prospect of a
mathematics which is indistinguishable from art-for-art's-sake, or
amusement-for-amusement's-sake. But there is one characteristic which saves
mathematics from this fate. Mathematics originated by abstraction from
primitive technology, and is indispensable to science and technology---in
short, mathematics has scientific applications. The experience of group
theory has proved, I hope once and for all, the bankruptcy of that narrow
practicality which would limit mathematics to what can currently be applied
in science. But now that mathematics is wide open, and anything goes, we
should be aware more than ever that scientific applicability is the only
objective value that mathematics has. I would not have set down constructed
memory theory and the post-formalist systems if I did not believe that they
could be applied. When and how they will be is another matter.
And what about the \enquote{validity} of formalism? The rise of the formalist
position is certainly understandable. The formalists had a commendable,
rationalistic desire to eliminate the metaphysical problems associated with
mathematics. Moreover, formalism helped stimulate the development of the
logic needed in computer technology (and also to stimulate this paper). In
spite of the productiveness of the formalist position, however, it now seems
beyond dispute that formalism has failed to achieve its original goals. (My
pure philosophical writings are the last word on this issue.) Perhaps the main
lesson to be learned from the history of formalism is that an idea does not
have to be \enquote{true} to be productive.
\section*{Note}
Early versions of \sysname{Illusions} and \sysname{Innperseqs} appeared in my essay
\essaytitle{Concept Art,} published in \booktitle{An Anthology}, ed. La Monte Young, New
York, 1963. An early, July 1961 version of \sysname{System Such That No One
Knows What's Going On} appeared in \journaltitle{dimension 14}, Ann Arbor, 1963,
published by the University of Michigan College of Architecture and Design.
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