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Kolmogorov Complexity vs. Computational Irreducibility: Understanding the Distinction
Community Essay James K. Wiles Community Essay James K. Wiles

Kolmogorov Complexity vs. Computational Irreducibility: Understanding the Distinction

James K. Wiles

Kolmogorov complexity and computational irreducibility describe two kinds of limits on simplification, but they apply in different ways. Kolmogorov complexity measures the shortest possible description of an object, such as a string. Computational irreducibility refers to processes that cannot be predicted or accelerated. This paper introduces each concept, explains their theoretical distinction, and illustrates the difference using simple examples.

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