Technical and Philosophical Papers

• Paper on representing translation with matrix algebra (pdf)
  A paper which develops and demonstrates handling problems involving translation or offset with matrix algebra (normal matrix theory deals only with transformations involving scaling or rotation)

• Paper on Jaynes' book "Probability Theory: The Logic of Science", part A (pdf)
  A paper proposing an alternate derivation of the "not" function in section 2.2, "The sum rule". The paper remains valuable for its identification of a symmetry requirement, but there are technical problems in the later parts.

• Paper on Jaynes' book "Probability Theory: The Logic of Science", part B (pdf)
  Further development from the perspective defined in Part A. As far as I know the proof offered here is correct, but it remains unsatisfying in regard to "transparency".

• Epistemology and the Roots of War (pdf)
  A paper on the fundamental incompatibility between mysticism, including religion, and rationalism (Science).

• Sharpening Occam's Razor (pdf)
  A paper in which the logical principle "Essences should not be multiplied unnecessarily" is shown to be both sound and wise on objective grounds.

• Derivation of Jaynes' Sum Rule Functions and the Complex-ities of 'Not' (pdf)
  A paper presenting a completely different approach to development of the "not" functions derived in E. T. Jaynes' book on Bayesian statistics, including generalizations to modal logics. The use of differential equations is avoided entirely.

• On the Burden of Proof (pdf)
  Is the demand "Prove it isn't so." rational? A paper on determining who should bear the burden of proof at any stage of a discussion by rational standards.

• Two Views of Emotions, Two Views of the World (pdf)
  Do you use your emotions to determine what is true? Do other people use theirs the same way? If they don't, whose method is right?

• The "Right" to One's Opinion (pdf)
  Is there such thing as a "right" to one's opinion? Are there any restrictions or limits on the "right" if it does exist? If so, why?

• Are Faith-Based and Proof-Based Knowledge Systems Compatible? (pdf)
  Is there any inherent conflict between Mysticism and Science? Between canon and secular law? Can one accept both and retain one's integrity and social reputation for intellectual honesty?

• Will World Economies Stabilize? (pdf)
  The current world economic crisis is being countered with massive stimulus packages, a strategy possibly based on fundamental economic arguments involving something called "negative feedback". But are these arguments sound? Engineers have reason to believe it isn't that easy. See why here.

• The Faces and Masks of Prophecy (pdf)
  Prophecy is widely practised by scientists, professional counselors, mystics, magicians and charlatans alike. What problems lie behind attempts to foretell the future? How can one tell whether a soothsayer is credible? What questions need to be asked?

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