back to idea for this text


Single Idea 17812

[from 'What Numbers Are' by Nicholas P. White, in 6. Mathematics / A. Nature of Mathematics / 4. Using Numbers / c. Counting procedure ]

Full Idea

Statements involving finite cardinalities can be made without treating numbers as objects at all, simply by using quantification and identity to define numerically definite quantifiers in the manner of Frege.

Gist of Idea

Finite cardinalities don't need numbers as objects; numerical quantifiers will do

Source

Nicholas P. White (What Numbers Are [1974], IV)

Book Reference

'Philosophy of Mathematics: anthology', ed/tr. Jacquette,Dale [Blackwell 2002], p.95


A Reaction

[He adds Quine 1960:268 as a reference]