If a particle's displacement is r(t) = 5t, then it follows that the
particle's velocity is v(t) = 5.
Does this logical connection mean that the displacement is the cause of the
velocity?
Perhaps we might distinguish between "logical" (eg mathematical) cause and
physical cause.
It is the distiction between how we prove (or know) something vs a physical
cause (whatever that might mean).
Philosophers distinguish many different "causes", including the willful
intention of the maker or designer (God?).
Bob Sciamanda
Physics, Edinboro Univ of PA (Em) http://www.winbeam.com/~trebor/
trebor@winbeam.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ludwik Kowalski" <kowalskil@MAIL.MONTCLAIR.EDU>
To: <PHYS-L@LISTS.NAU.EDU>
Sent: Friday, December 10, 2004 11:08 AM
Subject: Re: metaphysics
| (a) Physics leans heavily on mathematics.
| (b) The concept of the "cause and effect" is essential in mathematics
| (I am thinking about derivations).
|
| (c) Therefore it would be very difficult, if not impossible, to stop
| using the word "because" in physics.
|
| This word (and our believe in the reality of the "cause and effect"
| relations) is so deeply rooted in our brains that trying to eliminate
| it is likely to do more harm than good. I agree with those who made
| this observation yesterday. Asking "why is this?" and "why is that?"
| should be encouraged at all stages of learning.
| Ludwik Kowalski,
| (who is now a retired teacher)
|
|
| --
| No virus found in this incoming message.
| Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
| Version: 7.0.289 / Virus Database: 265.4.8 - Release Date: 12/8/2004
|
|
--
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.289 / Virus Database: 265.4.8 - Release Date: 12/8/2004