Single Idea 18131

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / C. Sources of Mathematics / 10. Constructivism / d. Predicativism]

Full Idea

If an abstract object exists only when there is some suitable way of expressing it, then there are at most denumerably many abstract objects.

Gist of Idea

If abstracta only exist if they are expressible, there can only be denumerably many of them

Source

David Bostock (Philosophy of Mathematics [2009], 8.2)

Book Reference

Bostock,David: 'Philosophy of Mathematics: An Introduction' [Wiley-Blackwell 2009], p.242


A Reaction

Fine by me. What an odd view, to think there are uncountably many abstract objects in existence, only a countable portion of which will ever be expressed! [ah! most people agree with me, p.243-4]