What Is Math?
I&#x27;ve always liked the idea of math as a type of language. When you learn quantum computing, for example, you go beyond the limits of our informal language (English, etc.) which developed in a purely classical world. This is why pop science articles on quantum phenomena never really make any sense. They try to use metaphors to explain concepts, but there is no existing concept in our informal language to use as a referent. Many quantum phenomena belong to an ontological category that is entirely new to most adults. For example, superposition: you try to explain it as something being in two places at once, but this doesn&#x27;t make sense nor is it very helpful for understanding how objects in superposition behave. In order to understand quantum concepts you have to learn a new language - that of mathematics. Then it becomes easy! Superposition is just linear combination. Done.<p>Also if you enjoy thinking about this topic I recommend Neal Stephenson&#x27;s book Anathem, which I just finished. It is a complete slog at the start, with endless boring architectural descriptions. I listened to it in audiobook form which made that section much more pleasant.