Single Idea 9946

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / A. Nature of Mathematics / 4. Using Numbers / g. Applying mathematics]

Full Idea

The logicist idea is that if mathematics is logic, and logic is the most general of disciplines, one that applies to all rational thought regardless of its content, then it is not surprising that mathematics is widely applicable.

Gist of Idea

Logicists say mathematics is applicable because it is totally general

Source

A.George / D.J.Velleman (Philosophies of Mathematics [2002], Ch.2)

Book Reference

George,A/Velleman D.J.: 'Philosophies of Mathematics' [Blackwell 2002], p.19


A Reaction

Frege was keen to emphasise this. You are left wondering why pure logic is applicable to the physical world. The only account I can give is big-time Platonism, or Pythagoreanism. Logic reveals the engine-room of nature, where the design is done.