5,419 research outputs found
Mathematical Foundations of Consciousness
We employ the Zermelo-Fraenkel Axioms that characterize sets as mathematical
primitives. The Anti-foundation Axiom plays a significant role in our
development, since among other of its features, its replacement for the Axiom
of Foundation in the Zermelo-Fraenkel Axioms motivates Platonic
interpretations. These interpretations also depend on such allied notions for
sets as pictures, graphs, decorations, labelings and various mappings that we
use. A syntax and semantics of operators acting on sets is developed. Such
features enable construction of a theory of non-well-founded sets that we use
to frame mathematical foundations of consciousness. To do this we introduce a
supplementary axiomatic system that characterizes experience and consciousness
as primitives. The new axioms proceed through characterization of so- called
consciousness operators. The Russell operator plays a central role and is shown
to be one example of a consciousness operator. Neural networks supply striking
examples of non-well-founded graphs the decorations of which generate
associated sets, each with a Platonic aspect. Employing our foundations, we
show how the supervening of consciousness on its neural correlates in the brain
enables the framing of a theory of consciousness by applying appropriate
consciousness operators to the generated sets in question
Does Long-Term Macrophyte Management in Lakes Affect Biotic Richness and Diversity?
We hypothesize that the richness and diversity of the biota
in Lake Moraine (42°50’47”N, 75°31’39”W) in New York have
been negatively impacted by 60 years of macrophyte and algae
management to control Eurasian watermilfoil (
Myriophyllum
spicatum
L.) and associated noxious plants. To test this
hypothesis we compare water quality characteristics, richness
and selected indicators of plant diversity, zooplankton, benthic
macroinvertebrates and fish in Lake Moraine with those in
nearby Hatch Lake (42°50’06”N, 75°40’67”W). The latter is
of similar size and would be expected to have similar biota,
but has not been subjected to management. Measurements of
temperature, pH, oxygen, conductivity, Secchi transparency,
calcium, total phosphorus and nitrites + nitrates are comparable.
Taxa richness and the diversity indices applied to the
aquatic macrophytes are similar in both lakes. (PDF has 8 pages.
The Quest for Material
Symposium: The Writing of Judicial Biography
American Political Science Association, Chicago, December 28-30, 194
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