Q&A: Formal logic, mathematical notation, and formulas in physics
Formal logic, mathematical notation, and formulas in physics
Question
Hello.
I started reading the book "Does the World Really Exist?" by Yitzhak Ben-Israel and Guy Finkelstein, and I got stuck on the physics formulas in it; likewise with column 506, "A Bayesian Look at the Physico-Theological Proof," in the formal section there. Is there a book or study method you recommend for someone who has no background in formal logic, mathematical notation, and formulas in physics, to reach an understanding of them? Thank you.
Answer
I don’t have a short recommendation. You need to study. I think a high-school-level knowledge of mathematical notation is enough to understand my column, but you need to follow it carefully and learn it.
Discussion on Answer
If you have a background, there’s no reason you shouldn’t understand. Read carefully. Everything is defined there.
You’re mistaken. I have a background in mathematics, and the notation wasn’t familiar to me. But then again, I only skimmed it quickly.