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Single Idea 17938

[filed under theme 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / f. Necessity in explanations ]

Full Idea

Mathematics can show that under a broad range of conditions, something initially surprising must occur (e.g. the hexagonal structure of honeycomb).

Gist of Idea

Mathematics can show why some surprising events have to occur

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