Hi folks
I've been trying to find a solution to the
discontinuity-of-matter-at-the-quantum-level platypus. Pirsig's
statement that matter is stable inorganic patterns of value might be
correct MoQ but I think we need a little more explanation than that to
keep the physicists happy. However obviously this is a rather
far-reaching question and possibly a trifle over-ambitious at this
stage;)
Anyway, back on the ranch, Glen Dickey writes:
> . I think the MoQ is the best metaphysics
> i've ever read, and while I would love to be able to punch some serious holes in > it, I find it exceedingly difficult.
IMO the problem arises from the way LILA is written. Because it's woven
into a novel it's difficult to point to a clear structure. When you read
it from cover to cover it seems beautifully intuitive but then when you
try and compare sections from different chapters the relationship isn't
always obvious.
While I'm not criticizes Pirsig's methods, if the MoQ is to be taken
seriously somebody has to come along and sort it out into some kind of
classical order.
At the moment one problem is that Pirsig's basic split - Dynamic vs
Static - isn't watertight. I don't mean to bring it up again right now,
but there are at least four different definitions of this flying around
the group at the moment. It may be that Pirsig didn't explain it well or
it may be that we're just not getting it. At any rate with this still in
disarray the MoQ lacks a very basic criteria for a metaphysics, namely
internal consistency. Of course, having an internally consistent theory
proves nothing at all, but if we can't even manage that then it's
hopeless.
Externally the MoQ has an even harder task ahead: it has to explain the
nature of consciousness, nothing less. Pirsig has already given us the
idea that consciousness is value, but that's only a starting point. With
a fully realized MoQ we should be able to explain quantum phenomena,
artificial intelligence, even the nature of the self.
Which brings me to the point of this post, which is to raise the
question of what the next PROGRAM should be.
Diana
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