Single Idea 17222

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / A. Nature of Mathematics / 2. Geometry]

Full Idea

It follows from the nature of a triangle that its three angles are equal to two right angles.

Gist of Idea

The sum of its angles follows from a triangle's nature

Source

Baruch de Spinoza (The Ethics [1675], IV Pr 57)

Book Reference

Spinoza,Benedict de: 'Ethics', ed/tr. White,WH/Stirling,AH [Wordsworth 2001], p.204


A Reaction

This is the essentialist view of mathematics, which I take to be connected to explanation, which I take to be connected to the direction of explanation.