Full Idea
The solid philosophical attitude that I think is required for the grounding of pure mathematics is this: In the beginning was the sign.
Gist of Idea
The grounding of mathematics is 'in the beginning was the sign'
Source
David Hilbert (works [1900]), quoted by A.George / D.J.Velleman - Philosophies of Mathematics Ch.6
Book Reference
George,A/Velleman D.J.: 'Philosophies of Mathematics' [Blackwell 2002], p.148
A Reaction
Why did people invent those particular signs? Presumably they were meant to designate something, in the world or in our experience.