Humans have expanded the range of their sensory perception through the use of physical tools brought forth by the development of scientific technology, such as telescopes, microscopes, sonar, and so on. These technologies enable us to see and hear things that are more distant and subtle.
Advanced mathematical logic, such as calculus, topology, matrices, and set theory, can be used to make simple logical thinking more complex and practical. Computers and artificial intelligence (AI) represent the best integration of mathematical logic and physics. The birth of AI relies on the combination of mathematics and physics. Without this combination, AI cannot come into existence. It is like a seed without soil and water. Even if mathematics is highly developed, without the integration of physical components such as integrated circuits and chips, AI is undoubtedly a flower in a mirror, unreachable. The current bottleneck in China’s technology is primarily due to issues with chips.
The results of this type of cognition can expand the scope and range of human cognition in both direct valid cognition and inferential valid cognition. However, due to the limitations of cognitive tools and incomplete logical parameters, it is challenging to reach comprehensive and in-depth conclusions about certain things in the material world. Therefore, understanding the objects of consciousness becomes elusive. Technological tools like computers and telescopes help us see farther, expanding our scope and range of cognition. For instance, we can now see Mars, and even travel there; in a few months, Elon Musk would likely send people there! Even so, it is not a big deal; if it is really that great, should it be able to send people to the Pure Land? Why do people admire him so much? Because they can see Mars but not the Pure Land. In contrast, if they could see the Pure Land, nobody would care about Elon Musk; everyone would follow the Khenpos from Tibet. All the fans worldwide would instantly turn into devotees of Amitabha Buddha.
It all boils down to cognition. Nevertheless, the advancement of technology has greatly expanded our cognitive scope, both broader and subtler. Consider, for instance, the ability to directly observe the novel coronavirus through a microscope. This technological advancement enables humans to engage in cognitive activities in previously unexplored areas, such as biomimicry, and to utilize sonar technology for detecting ship movements. The ability to use sonar, once limited to animals like dolphins and an uncharted territory for humans, has now become a tool for human cognition. Now, through biomimicry, humans have expanded their cognitive horizons, paving the way for a new, broader, and deeper understanding.
Excerpted from:Cognition and Expression Part One
