Measurement All Things Are Measurement, All Things Are Measurable
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: This paper proposes that measurement is the object of all mathematical inquiry. Measurement cannot be directly defined; it is structurally ineffable — prior to its manifestation, there is no difference, no structure, and no named object, and therefore no determinate language to describe it. Symmetry is the structural mode of measurement; measurement is the content, symmetry manifests measurement, and the carrier is the straightedge. The straightedge unfolds into compass-and-straightedge — the straightedge connects points, the compass draws circles. Compass-and-straightedge measurement possesses the attribute of eternal uniqueness and stability; its object is the line segment; it is the ontological carrier and real state of measurement. The Cartesian coordinate system, through endpoint symbolization, unfolds measurement from "what it is" into "what it can become in variation," giving rise to calculus geometry, whose attribute is continuous variation (process) and whose object is the function. The two systems are unified in measurement but opposite in direction: compass-and-straightedge measurement traces toward the origin, while calculus measurement unfolds toward manifestation. Symmetry is the principle of cosmic construction; difference is the principle of cosmic cognition; symmetry is the boundary of difference. Measurement is imperishable; symmetry eternally unfolds, producing cosmic isomorphism, cosmic boundary, and cosmic order. "All things are measurement" — not axiomatizable. "All things are measurable" — axiomatizable. The "logical starting point" of axiomatization conceals the "logical origin," leading to logical circularity and systemic incompleteness.
Author: Zhang, jianbo
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225374720