![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 include independent machine ordinary representation set system theory time variableRelated quotes
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