Hmm, you've blown my mind. I've used traditional metaphors to describe and organize, such as the sdlc and topics like construction as defined by books like Code Complete. In other words, about/around these topics, not strictly limited to their concrete form or process.

I suppose it isn't the only way to look at things, just common. Though we are approaching the philosophical realm at this point… reminds me of the section of Philosophy class where you learn to question if you can even trust your own senses. I'm not sure, however this is a book for beginners, and I sit on the shoulders of those that came before. Not sure I'm qualified to reimagine software engineering from the ground up as you describe. If you write that book, I'd read it!