more from Philip Kitcher

Single Idea 18066

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

Full Idea

There is an old explanation of the utility of mathematics. Mathematics describes the structural features of our world, features which are manifested in the behaviour of all the world's inhabitants.

Gist of Idea

The old view is that mathematics is useful in the world because it describes the world

Source

Philip Kitcher (The Nature of Mathematical Knowledge [1984], 06.1)

Book Reference

Kitcher,Philip: 'The Nature of Mathematical Knowledge' [OUP 1984], p.105


A Reaction

He only cites Russell in modern times as sympathising with this view, but Kitcher gives it some backing. I think the view is totally correct. The digression produced by Cantorian infinities has misled us.