Full Idea
Most of mathematics can be faithfully redescribed by classical (realist) set theory. More precisely, we can translate other mathematical theories - such as group theory, analysis, calculus, arithmetic, geometry and so on - into the language of set theory.
Gist of Idea
Most mathematical theories can be translated into the language of set theory
Source
Michèle Friend (Introducing the Philosophy of Mathematics [2007], 2.3)
Book Reference
Friend,Michèle: 'Introducing the Philosophy of Mathematics' [Acumen 2007], p.33
A Reaction
This is why most mathematicians seem to regard set theory as foundational. We could also translate football matches into the language of atomic physics.