DSimon comments on Kevin T. Kelly's Ockham Efficiency Theorem - Less Wrong

30 Post author: Johnicholas 16 August 2010 04:46AM

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Comment author: DSimon 18 August 2010 09:26:09PM 0 points [-]

We could keep the abbreviated syntax but avoid the necessity of parentheses by using post-op notation, couldn't we?

Comment author: thomblake 18 August 2010 09:32:36PM 0 points [-]

For that, I think we'd need a stack with a line-termination character. In effect, we'd be removing two characters for one, which I suppose would be an improvement.

Comment author: adsenanim 18 August 2010 10:02:25PM *  0 points [-]

So:

  • The order of operations can be variable dependent on the number

  • The notation method effects pattern

  • The pattern can change if primes are always used

  • Etc.

How many ways can we change the rules? How many rules are there?

It is amazing just how much variation in pattern can be achieved just by changing and/or adding/subtracting rules.

There is the general rule of rules:

The fewer the rules, the less variable the pattern, and the inverse, the more rules the more variable the pattern.

  • Sorry for the late edit, but, I would also add that the fewer the rules the less adaptable as well...