Discrete or Continuous?

The human brain processes incoming stimuli though its system of neurons. Once activated, a neuron speeds an electric pulse along its axon. When the pulse reaches the axon’s endpoint, it triggers a chemical release to bridge the synapse gap; thereby activating the next neuron in line. Although this constitutes a processing system of discrete events, our consciousness perceives it as continuous.

Both the definition and implications of continuous include “uninterrupted”, “extent” and “undivided”, yet it is deemed to be sub-dividable; a sequence consisting of moments or events that are attached. In other words, the continuous is reducible to a series of the discrete, albeit functioning or perceived as analog.

The machine which interprets the discrete as continuous is the human brain with the qualia (phenomenal qualities) of its consciousness.

One could conclude that what we experience as continuous is either a fine series of the discrete or a continuity that is algorithmically processed by the brain in discrete steps. As such, we cannot discern the truly continuous. Having said that does not minimize its importance as we live in a continuous world. It only serves to emphasize that it is our analog experiential relationship with the surroundings that most significantly determines the true quality of human life; it should be provided by our architecture. It is true that a discrete moment, discrete image or singularity – the digital input – can provide a powerful sensory experience permanently impregnated and forever recalled; but the discrete is a monumental moment. It does not represent the continuum of quotidian. It is the discrete view of architecture from afar, not the continuous experience of architecture up close.