What is Zeno’s Dichotomy Paradox? - Colm Kelleher
3,698,425 Views
6,279 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Can you ever travel from one place to another? Ancient Greek philosopher Zeno of Elea gave a convincing argument that all motion is impossible - but where's the flaw in his logic? Colm Kelleher illustrates how to resolve Zeno's Dichotomy Paradox.
WatchThink 5 Multiple Choice &
2 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &
1 Open Discussion
2 Open Answer Questions Dig Deeper Learn More Discuss 1 Guided Discussion &
1 Open Discussion
Another paradox, similar to the dichotomy, but slightly more complicated, is called Achilles and the Tortoise. In this paradox, Achilles - the fastest runner in all Greece - races a tortoise. Achilles, confident of victory, agrees to give the tortoise a head start. À la Zeno, construct an argument that “proves” that Achilles will never catch up with the tortoise.
Login to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Director Candy Kugel
- Educator Colm Kelleher
- Producer Marilyn Kraemer
- Animator Rick Broas
- Narrator Colm Kelleher
