![If the variables are continuous, this definition [Ashby's fundamental concept of machine] corresponds to the description of a dynamic system by a set of ordinary differential equations with time as the independent variable. However, such representation by differential equations is too restricted for a theory to include biological systems and calculating machines where discontinuities are ubiquitous. (Ludwig von Bertalanffy)](https://cdn.quotesdtb.com/img/quotes_images_webp/36/ludwig-von-bertalanffy-biological-945336.webp)
If the variables are continuous, this definition [Ashby's fundamental concept of machine] corresponds to the description of a dynamic system by a set of ordinary differential equations with time as the independent variable. However, such representation by differential equations is too restricted for a theory to include biological systems and calculating machines where discontinuities are ubiquitous.
Ludwig von BertalanffyRelated topics
biological calculating concept definition description differential dynamic fundamental representation set variableRelated quotes
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