Yuri I. Manin

Yuri I. Manin

Consider the set of all error--correcting block codes over a fixed alphabet with $q$ letters. It determines a recursively enumerable set of points in the unit square with coordinates $(R,δ)$:= {\it (relative transmission rate, relative minimal distance).} Limit points of this set form a closed subset, defined by $R\le α_q(δ)$, where $α_q(δ)$ is a continuous decreasing function called {\it asymptotic bound.} Its existence was proved by the author in 1981, but all attempts to find an explicit formula for it so far failed. In this note I consider the question whether this function is computable in the sense of constructive mathematics, and discuss some arguments suggesting that the answer might be negative.

Dmitrii Yu. Manin, Yuri I. Manin

In this short essay, we discuss some basic features of cognitive activity at several different space-time scales: from neural networks in the brain to civilizations. One motivation for such comparative study is its heuristic value. Attempts to better understand the functioning of "wetware" involved in cognitive activities of central nervous system by comparing it with a computing device have a long tradition. We suggest that comparison with Internet might be more adequate. We briefly touch upon such subjects as encoding, compression, and Saussurean trichotomy langue/langage/parole in various environments.