On: Twitter Considering 10,000-Character Limit for Tweets

[smt88]

Short equations don't express complex thoughts. They express the short result of complex proofs, which are themselves essentially definitions. Math is a process of describing reality using definitions built on definitions. The analogy to communicating social, political, or creative thoughts is ridiculous.

If you want to prove me wrong, show me a complex thought expressed in 140 characters. Again, I agree that complex thought can result in a very interesting tweet, but the tweet will not be able to convey all the thought behind it.

[Mendenhall → smt88]

What is the sound of one hand clapping?

[smt88 → Mendenhall]

My response in 136 characters:

That thought is pseudo-profound, not complex. In this context, "sound" is human-audible air vibration. One waving hand doesn't make any.

[Mendenhall → smt88]

If nothing else, I inspired one. Well said! I appreciate that response.