Lesson 5 Reflection Activity

“We sometimes use numbers as representations, which is to say that we assign numbers to
states of affairs with a view to capturing some features of them. Could you think of some
phenomenon that would resist being assigned numbers in this way, or whose features cannot
be represented in mathematical terms? Be sure to explain your choice.”

Answer: feelings and emotions

Lesson 5’s “Thinking About Numbers” chapter places great emphasis on the use of numbers as
representations. As stated within the text, there is a focus on the concept that the world can be
represented in mathematical terms. However, despite this notion, there exists a phenomenon
that resists being assigned by numbers to thoroughly represent it, thus, whose features cannot
be represented in mathematical terms, and that is feelings and emotions. This phenomenon is a
fundamental part of human ability, as they are inevitably experienced by every human being
within their lifetimes. Although there are physiological reactions linked to emotions that can be
measured, such as heart rate (HRV), skin conductance (EDR), brain activity (EEG), cortisol
levels, and respiratory rate, these measurements are not fully able to convey the profoundness
of the feelings and emotions of which they stem from in their full capacities. For instance, there
is no mathematical method of quantifying their complete magnitudes, the feelings of love,
gratitude, and anger. These examples are all subjective, meaning they vary in interpretation and
amount when evaluating each person. They are different for everyone, so they cannot be
quantified using numbers. A unique experience is unable to fall under a universally accurate
categorization. Therefore, given the multiple reasons mentioned in this paragraph, feelings and
emotions are prime examples of a phenomenon incapable of being represented in mathematical
terms.