Single Idea 8862

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / C. Sources of Mathematics / 9. Fictional Mathematics]

Full Idea

The means by which platonic objects are simulated is existential metaphor. Numbers are conjured up as metaphorical measures of cardinality.

Clarification

Cardinality answers 'How many?'

Gist of Idea

Platonic objects are really created as existential metaphors

Source

Stephen Yablo (Apriority and Existence [2000], §12)

Book Reference

'New Essays on the A Priori', ed/tr. Boghossian,P /Peacocke,C [OUP 2000], p.214


A Reaction

'Fictional' might be a better word than 'metaphorical', since the latter usually implies some sort of comparison.