more on this theme | more from this thinker | more from this text
Full Idea
Mathematics can demonstrate structural similarities between systems (e.g. missing population periods and the gaps in the rings of Saturn).
Gist of Idea
Mathematics can reveal structural similarities in diverse systems
Source
Mark Colyvan (Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics [2012], 6.3.2)
Book Ref
Colyvan,Mark: 'An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics' [CUP 2012], p.115
A Reaction
[Colyvan expounds the details of his two examples] It is these sorts of results that get people enthusiastic about the mathematics embedded in nature. A misunderstanding, I think.