Full Idea
Mathematics does not deal with ends, but with the essences and properties of forms (figures), …and has placed before us another rule of truth.
Gist of Idea
Mathematics deals with the essences and properties of forms
Source
Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], IApp)
Book Reference
Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics', ed/tr. White,WH/Stirling,AH [Wordsworth 2001], p.37
A Reaction
Just what I need - a nice clear assertion of essentialism in mathematics. Many say maths is all necessary, so essence is irrelevant, but I say explanations occur in mathematics, and that points to essentialism.