Single Idea 9925

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / B. Foundations for Mathematics / 7. Mathematical Structuralism / c. Nominalist structuralism]

Full Idea

Usually structuralism and nominalism are considered rivals. But structuralism can also be the first step in a strategy of nominalist reconstrual or paraphrase.

Gist of Idea

Structuralism and nominalism are normally rivals, but might work together

Source

JP Burgess / G Rosen (A Subject with No Object [1997], II.C.0)

Book Reference

Burgess,J/Rosen,G: 'A Subject with No Object' [OUP 1997], p.147


A Reaction

Hellman and later Chihara seem to be the main proponents of nominalist structuralism. My sympathies lie with this strategy. Are there objects at the nodes of the structure, or is the structure itself platonic? Mill offers a route.