Single Idea 10089

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

Full Idea

One might well wonder whether talk of abstract entities is less a solution to the empiricist's problem of how a priori knowledge is possible than it is a label for the problem.

Gist of Idea

Talk of 'abstract entities' is more a label for the problem than a solution to it

Source

A.George / D.J.Velleman (Philosophies of Mathematics [2002], Intro)

Book Reference

George,A/Velleman D.J.: 'Philosophies of Mathematics' [Blackwell 2002], p.8


A Reaction

This pinpoints my view nicely. What the platonist postulates is remote, bewildering, implausible and useless!