Notes
I've been encouraged to add some notes. So here they are. Sorry if this gets too technical for some.
In computer science, "reentrant" functions are functions that can be re-entered while they are already being executed without effecting the results. Typically recursive function generally must be reentrant. Recursive function are functions that reference themselves in their definition. Recursive function are equivalent to the computable functions, the set of all functions that can be computed by a Turing machine in countable steps. Now it also happens that recursive functions are the primary root of complexity. The Mandelbrot set (see the image included with this poem) is generated with a VERY simple recursive function, i.e., f(z)=z^2 +c, where z is a complex number, z^2 is z squared, and "c" is a complex constant (sorry for those unfamiliar with complex numbers, i.e., the generalization of real-numbers and the field of numbers required to yield roots of all polynomials with real coefficients). Now it turns out that Man's (and other primates, too--probably most creatures) have reentrant neocortexes (although here reentrancy may affect results, but probably not strongly), the seat of conscious thought. In fact the neocortex is rather simple. It is the covering of the brain and in humans is only six cells thick. Nonetheless, this is almost certainly where all conscious thought and higher reason lies. Now the neocortex is "reentrant", i.e., there is feedback, just like what generates complex (and chaotic) structures like the Mandelbrot set. So it is this "reentrant", or recursive nature of the neocortex and human thought that gives rise to intellect. So our minds have a simple, yet profound, basis that is understood in current mathematics. Now of course we are far from understanding the details of the human intellect, but the foundation of how that intellect arises is at least understood mathematically. Incredible, huh! Man's mind is reentrant. We are literally "Complexity's Juggernaut". And we are akin to other recursive structures. We are Mandelbrotian.
Best regards,
Rick
MySpace Bulletin
Facebook
Friendster
Orkut
Hi5
Wordsy
Add to Library
Bookmark Poem
Email to Friends
Link 
Loading..
