Observers reduce complex inputs into simplified representations via equivalencing, treating diverse states (e.g., gas molecules) as identical. This mirrors concepts like lossy compression or coarse-graining.
~
### Note OT-001: Observer Theory as Equivalencing **Content:** Observers reduce complex inputs into simplified representations via **equivalencing**, treating diverse states (e.g., gas molecules) as identical abstractions. **Tags:** `#ObserverTheory` `#Equivalencing` `#Compression` ([Observer Theory - Stephen Wolfram Writings](https://writings.stephenwolfram.com/2023/12/observer-theory/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
**Claim:** Observers reduce complexity via Equivalencing, akin to lossy compression. - **Grounds:** Wolfram describes equivalencing as collapsing rich inputs (e.g., molecular states) into single observables like pressure ([Observer Theory - Stephen Wolfram Writings](https://writings.stephenwolfram.com/2023/12/observer-theory/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)). - **Warrant:** Finite observers must coarsen data to process it. - **Backing:** Shannon’s source coding theorem formalizes limits of compression and distortion in data ([Shannon's source coding theorem](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shannon%27s_source_coding_theorem?utm_source=chatgpt.com)); Marr’s computational theory of vision shows sensory systems abstract high-dimensional input ([Marr's Theory: From primal sketch to 3-D models](https://homepages.inf.ed.ac.uk/rbf/CVonline/LOCAL_COPIES/GOMES1/marr.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com)). - **Qualifier:** Generally true for biological and engineered observers; exceptions occur when perfect fidelity is required. - **Rebuttal:** Over-equivalencing (e.g., mapping all inputs to a single symbol) yields no usable information. - **SIFT:** Stop—question if equivalencing fully captures perception. Investigate—consult cognitive science and information theory. Find trusted sources—Shannon (PI), Marr (MIT Press), peer-reviewed journals. Trace—link back to Shannon (1948) and Marr (1982).