Single Idea 10228

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / B. Foundations for Mathematics / 7. Mathematical Structuralism / a. Structuralism]

Full Idea

It is contentious, to say the least, to claim that infinite structures are apprehended by pattern recognition.

Gist of Idea

Could infinite structures be apprehended by pattern recognition?

Source

Stewart Shapiro (Philosophy of Mathematics [1997], 4.1)

Book Reference

Shapiro,Stewart: 'Philosophy of Mathematics:structure and ontology' [OUP 1997], p.112


A Reaction

It only seems contentious for completed infinities. The idea that the pattern continues in same way seems (pace Wittgenstein) fairly self-evident, just like an arithmetical series.