Single Idea 17815

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / B. Foundations for Mathematics / 6. Mathematics as Set Theory / b. Mathematics is not set theory]

Full Idea

Sets could hardly serve as a foundation for number theory if we had to await detailed results in the upper reaches of the edifice before we could make our first move.

Gist of Idea

We can't use sets as foundations for mathematics if we must await results from the upper reaches

Source

Palle Yourgrau (Sets, Aggregates and Numbers [1985], 'Two')

Book Reference

'Philosophy of Mathematics: anthology', ed/tr. Jacquette,Dale [Blackwell 2002], p.356