Concept
Recursion
Overview
Recursion occurs when the definition of a concept or process depends on a simpler or previous version of itself. Recursion is used in a variety of disciplines ranging from linguistics to logic. The most common application of recursion is in mathematics and computer science, where a function being defined is applied within its own definition. While this apparently defines an infinite number of instances (function values), it is often done in such a way that no infinite loop or infinite chain of references can occur.
A process that exhibits recursion is recursive. Video feedback displays recursive images, as does an infinity mirror.
Overview adapted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0; see the article history for authors).
Philosophers who discussed Recursion
Related ideas
- Fractal
- Giuseppe Peano
- Hierarchy
- Ad infinitum
- Integer
- Formal grammar
- Function (mathematics)
- Mathematics
- Axiomatic system
- Mathematical logic
- Natural number
- Noam Chomsky
- Linguistics
- Richard Dedekind
- Corporate governance
- Peano axioms
- Set (mathematics)
- Set theory
- Self-reference
- Infinite regress
- Logic
- Computer programming
- Computer science
- Douglas Hofstadter
Place in the tradition
Part of Language.