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adamnemecek | karma 57571 | avg karma 6.54 · 2018-01-25 03:23:45+00:00

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_computation

Real computation can.

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IntronExon | karma 3403 | avg karma 2.56 · 2018-01-25 03:27:13

In principle. Not in the actual universe we inhabit, with its Beckenstein Bound.

adamnemecek | karma 57571 | avg karma 6.54 · 2018-01-25 04:09:22

Arbitrary precision (not infinite) is good enough for me.

IntronExon | karma 3403 | avg karma 2.56 · 2018-01-25 04:16:52+00:00

Sort of like coming arbitrarily close to the speed of light, in that it will require energy on the same asymptotic scale you’re hoping to achieve precision in. Degenerate matter computers?

openasocket | karma 4328 | avg karma 3.06 · 2018-01-25 16:16:53+00:00

"Real computation," which allows you to solve NP and #P problems in polynomial time, require infinite precision. With just arbitrary precision it isn't any more powerful than classical computation.

krastanov | karma 4976 | avg karma 3.37 · 2018-01-25 03:47:35

"Real computation" is a flawed model because it does not permit scalable error correction mechcanisms. Check out Aaronson's lecture notes if you are interested in the rigorous argument.

adamnemecek | karma 57571 | avg karma 6.54 · 2018-01-25 04:03:15+00:00

I disagree with Aaronson but am not quite there to have a serious discussion about it.

kirrent | karma 1652 | avg karma 4.44 · 2018-01-25 09:19:43+00:00

If you think real computation is in any way feasible why don't you build one and make a silly amount of money?