Single Idea 15370

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / C. Sources of Mathematics / 10. Constructivism / d. Predicativism]

Full Idea

Predicativism has it that a mathematical object (such as a set of numbers) cannot be defined by quantifying over a collection that includes that same mathematical object. To do so would be a violation of the vicious circle principle.

Gist of Idea

Predicativism says mathematical definitions must not include the thing being defined

Source

Leon Horsten (The Tarskian Turn [2011], 07.7)

Book Reference

Horsten,Leon: 'The Tarskian Turn' [MIT 2011], p.100


A Reaction

In other words, when you define an object you are obliged to predicate something new, and not just recycle the stuff you already have.