Meaning: This quote by Rudolf Arnheim, a prominent art and psychology theorist, delves into the concept of structure and order within the context of information theory. Arnheim was known for his work in the field of visual perception and the psychology of art, and his insights often extended to broader philosophical and scientific themes. In this quote, he highlights the paradoxical nature of neglecting structure while still relying on the concept of order, particularly within the domain of information theory.

To fully understand the significance of this quote, it's essential to unpack the concepts of structure, order, and information theory. Structure refers to the arrangement and organization of elements within a system or entity, while order pertains to the coherence and predictability inherent in a given arrangement. Information theory, on the other hand, is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses the study of the quantification, storage, and communication of information.

Arnheim's assertion that neglecting structure while utilizing the concept of order leads to absurd consequences can be interpreted in various ways. On one level, it could be seen as a commentary on the inherent tension between form and function, or the interplay between chaos and control within complex systems. Neglecting structure, in this context, might refer to a disregard for the underlying organization and coherence of a system, while still attempting to impose a semblance of order on it. This mismatch between form and function can indeed lead to absurd or nonsensical outcomes.

Furthermore, Arnheim's reference to the present terminology of information theory suggests that he was critiquing the language and concepts used within this field at the time. Information theory, pioneered by Claude Shannon and Warren Weaver in the mid-20th century, deals with the quantification of information and the fundamental limits of signal processing. The terminology and conceptual framework employed in information theory are crucial for understanding and analyzing communication systems, data compression, and cryptography, among other applications.

Arnheim's critique may stem from a perception that the terminology and theoretical constructs within information theory were not adequately aligned with the underlying structures of the systems they sought to describe. In other words, there might have been a disconnect between the formalisms and the actual organizational principles governing the transmission and processing of information. This disjunction could lead to a situation where the concept of order is invoked without due consideration for the underlying structure, resulting in incongruities and contradictions.

In the context of visual art and perception, Arnheim's expertise, his quote could also be interpreted as a commentary on the relationship between form and content. The visual arts often grapple with the tension between structure and expression, with artists seeking to imbue their creations with meaningful order while also pushing the boundaries of conventional structure. Arnheim's multidisciplinary background likely informed his perspective on the interplay between structure, order, and meaning across different domains.

In conclusion, Rudolf Arnheim's quote serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the interplay between structure, order, and information theory. His critique of neglecting structure while relying on the concept of order underscores the importance of aligning theoretical frameworks with the underlying organizational principles of the systems they seek to describe. Whether applied to information theory, visual art, or broader philosophical inquiries, Arnheim's insights continue to resonate with those grappling with the complexities of structure and order in various domains.