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Single Idea 13151

[filed under theme 6. Mathematics / A. Nature of Mathematics / 5. The Infinite / a. The Infinite ]

Full Idea

It is an error that all infinites are equal.

Gist of Idea

Not all infinites are equal

Source

Isaac Newton (Letters to Bentley [1692], 1693.01.17)

Book Ref

Newton,Isaac: 'Philosophical Writings' [CUP 2004], p.99

A Reaction

There follows a discussion of the mathematicians' view of infinity. Cantor was not the first to notice that there is more than one sort of of infinity.

The 6 ideas from 'Letters to Bentley'

15863 The principles of my treatise are designed to fit with a belief in God [Newton]
13150 The motions of the planets could only derive from an intelligent agent [Newton]
8340 I do not pretend to know the cause of gravity [Newton]
13151 Not all infinites are equal [Newton]
13152 We can talk of 'innumerable number', about the infinite points on a line [Newton]
12178 That gravity should be innate and essential to matter is absurd [Newton]