more from 'Ontology and Mathematical Truth' by Michael Jubien

Single Idea 9963

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / C. Sources of Mathematics / 1. Mathematical Platonism / b. Against mathematical platonism]

Full Idea

If the intuition of mathematical objects were general, there would be no real debate over platonism.

Gist of Idea

If we all intuited mathematical objects, platonism would be agreed

Source

Michael Jubien (Ontology and Mathematical Truth [1977], p.111)

Book Reference

'Philosophy of Mathematics: anthology', ed/tr. Jacquette,Dale [Blackwell 2002], p.111


A Reaction

It is particularly perplexing when Gödel says that his perception of them is just like sight or smell, since I have no such perception. How do you individuate very large numbers, or irrational numbers, apart from writing down numerals?