Alien math

Freeman Craig Presson (dhr@iname.com)
Sun, 18 Jul 1999 13:05:57 -0500

A few possible directions :

That's just off the top of my head. However, I think math would still be the first thing we understand in common with ETIs, because we could compare how each applies it to science and technology. Tell me how Qzztbkf expresses "F = ma" and I'll have a pretty good idea how to start deciphering everything else she sends us.

If her math and physics are so alien that it takes us years to explain Newton and Wrrrzjl to each other, then the rest of the conversation's going to be mighty strained as well. That'll be OK with me if the aging therapy kicks in in time -- besides, if you're having a conversation that was almost impossible in the first place, you shouldn't be surprised at its difficulty, enit?