Non-trivial philosophy: Cybernetics, data analytics, and the biophysics of information theory. Issue 8 (7th September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lee, Clarissa Ai Ling
• Editors: Baron, Professor Ranulph Glanville, Professor David Griffiths and Dr Ben Sweeting, Philip
• Is Part Of: Kybernetes. Volume 44:Issue 8/9(2015)
• Page Start: 1310
• Page End: 1323
• Publication Date: 2015-09-07
• Subjects: Cybernetics -- History -- Monte Carlo simulation -- Philosophy of science -- Automata theory -- Physics; Cybernetics -- Periodicals; Systems engineering -- Periodicals; 003.505
• DOI: 10.1108/K-10-2014-0227
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0368-492X

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to recuperate Heinz von Foerster's "Quantum Mechanical Theory of Memory" from Cybernetics: Circular, Causal, and Feedback Mechanisms in Biological and Social Systems and John von Neumann's The Computer and the Brain for present-day, and future, applications in biophysics, theories of information and cognition, and quantum theories; the main objective is to ground cybernetic theory for a critical evaluation of the historical evolution of the Monte Carlo method, with potential for application to quantum computing. Design/methodology/approach: – Close-reading of selected texts, historiography, and case studies in current developments in the Monte Carlo method of high-energy particle physics (HEP) for developing a platform for bridging the apparently incommensurable differences between the physical-mathematical and the biological sciences. Findings: – First, usefulness of the cybernetic approach for historicizing the Monte Carlo method in relation to digital computing and quantum physics. Second, development of an inter/trans-disciplinary approach to the hard sciences through a critical re-evaluation of the historical texts of von Foerster and von Neumann for application to developments in quantum theory, biophysics, and computing. Research limitations/implications: – This work is largely theoretical and uses dialectical thought experiments to engage between sciences operating across different ontological scales. Practical implications: – Consideration of developments of quantum computing and how that would change one's perception of information, data, and the way in which analysis is currently performed with big data. Originality/value: – This is the first time that von Neumann and von Foerster have been contrasted and compared in relation to their epistemic compatibility, historical importance, and relevance for producing a creative approach to current scientific epistemology. This paper hopes to change how the authors view trans-disciplinary/inter-disciplinary practices in the sciences and produce new vistas of thought in the history and philosophy of science.