Single Idea 10055

[catalogued under 5. Theory of Logic / C. Ontology of Logic / 3. If-Thenism]

Full Idea

All the demonstrations of mathematicians are the same, whether there be any square or circle existing in the world or no.

Gist of Idea

Mathematical proofs work, irrespective of whether the objects exist

Source

John Locke (Essay Conc Human Understanding (2nd Ed) [1694], 4.04.08)

Book Reference

Locke,John: 'Essay Concerning Human Understanding', ed/tr. Nidditch,P.H. [OUP 1979], p.566

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A Reaction

Musgrave gives this as an early indication of the if-thenist view of mathematics.