Allan F. Randall

Online Essays and Papers
(Only my philosophical essays are currently available online.
See my resume for a more complete list of writings,
including those not available online.)

Computational Metaphysics
An overview of my philosophical system and the essays on this page.

Core essays describing computational metaphysics:

Quantum Phenomenology
From the Cogito of Descartes'--I think, therefore I am--arise the basic principles of recursive function theory, feedback control theory and quantum mechanics. 
Modality & Computational Metaphysics
Outline of a rational, idealist metaphysics in which the paradoxes of quantum mechanics arise naturally and inevitably, developed within the framework of modal logic.
Quantum Superposition, Necessity & the Identity of Indiscernibles
The basic paradoxes of quantum mechanics are derived from traditional Leibnizian rationalist principles. 

Other essays of immediate relevance to computational metaphysics:

On Nature by Parmenides of Elea
A highly readable version of the classic by the Greek father of metaphysics. With a commentary.
A Critique of the Kantian View of Geometry
A look at why Kant thought geometry & arithmetic were synthetic a priori, not analytic, concentrating on geometry. I agree with him, but only if predicate logic is also labelled synthetic.
In Defence of Transcendental Idealism
A reconstruction of Kant's transcendental deduction of the categories (logical functions), expressed in terms compatible with related modern ideas like recursion theory and the anthropic principle. 
Truth, Coherence and Correspondence in the Metaphysics of F.H. Bradley
An introduction to the many-worlds idealism of F.H. Bradley. 
Computational Platonism
A proposal for a rationalist (nonmystical) mathematical Platonism, developed using the lambda-calculus. 
Logic, Idealism & Materialism in Early & Late Wittgenstein
Wittgenstein's attempt to produce a consistent, logic-based materialist metaphysics, its failure and his attempt at a nonmetaphysical solution. 
Quantum Miracles and Immortality
Does quantum mechanics allow us to perform miracles and/or live forever? The answer may surprise you!

The Inconsistency of Substance in the Metaphysics of John Locke

Why Locke despaired of ever finding a consistent notion of substance. 
The Rejection of Abstract Ideas in the Metaphysics of George Berkeley
Berkeley's subjective idealism and insistence on the passive nature of ideas.