Single Idea 10885

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / B. Foundations for Mathematics / 2. Proof in Mathematics]

Full Idea

Mathematicians are uncomfortable with computerised proofs because a 'good' proof should do more than convince us that a certain statement is true. It should also explain why the statement in question holds.

Gist of Idea

Computer proofs don't provide explanations

Source

Leon Horsten (Philosophy of Mathematics [2007], §5.3)

Book Reference

'Stanford Online Encyclopaedia of Philosophy', ed/tr. Stanford University [plato.stanford.edu], p.26