# Computation is a Logical Process [Computation](Computation.md) is fundamentally a logical process. It involves manipulating symbols and applying rules in a deterministic manner. This logical structure ensures that, given a specific program of inputs the output is predetermined, regardless of whether the computation is physically executed. Put another way, [Computation is Following Rules](Computation%20is%20Following%20Rules.md). This is analogous to a true [Proposition](Proposition.md) being true, regardless if it is [*proved*](Proof.md) to be true. For instance, the number $6892346983459091245$ is either prime or not prime. One of those propositions is true. This holds regardless of whether we execute a proof of either proposition. It is worth keeping in mind that [Computation is a Physical Process](Computation%20is%20a%20Physical%20Process.md) as well. If we combine this with the fact that computation is a logical process, we arrive at: > Computation is a physical manifestation of logic. Computation, being a physical process, provides a way to instantiate and manipulate logical relationships. So, while logic itself is not a computational process, it finds expression and application through computation[^1]. --- Date: 20241214 Links to: [Proof is a Computational Process](Proof%20is%20a%20Computational%20Process.md) Tags: References: * []() [^1]: Note that this is analogous to how [Information is an Abstract Entity](Information%20is%20an%20Abstract%20Entity.md), but it also [Requires Physical Instantiation](Information%20Requires%20Physical%20Instantiation.md). This physical instantiation is substrate independent.