Re: Universal Translators

From: Joel \ (twisty@iac.net)
Date: Tue Nov 12 1996 - 09:14:57 MST


On Mon, 11 Nov 1996, Chris Hind wrote:

> >My reasoning for having a hierarchical (or layered) structure like this
> >is that a single document could then be "read" at varying levels of
> >detail and still be meaningful.
>
> I like this idea of a hierarchical language you should develop this idea
> more and create icons for it.

Hmmm... this coincides with my design of a Virtual Reality system that
breaks up visible details into layers of heirarchial relivancy. The more
distant an object, the more its smaller details become irrelivant.

I've long believed that the greatest indicator of intelligence is in its
increasing layers of discernment. The more characteristics that can be
discerned, the more completely one models the reality. So much VR is
more Virtual than Real, I push for VIRTUOUS Reality... something rich
with characteristics and properties.

It's little wonder that the man who coined the term VR was pushing for
something he calls "post-symbolic communication." When a popular Science
journal asked the simple question "what is VR?" he replied somthing to
the effect of:
  "It's like real Reality, but more elastic and malliable.
   If I wanted make the planet three times larger with a hollow cavern
   inside, and inside that make a huge, pulsing goat's bladder, studded
   with golden railways populated with gerbils playing accordians, I
   don't have to SAY all that; I can just DO IT!"

But in short, I'm all for increasing layers of discernment.

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