Single Idea 18083

[catalogued under 6. Mathematics / A. Nature of Mathematics / 5. The Infinite / k. Infinitesimals]

Full Idea

The method of infinitesimals is that you divide by the time, and then set the time to zero.

Gist of Idea

With infinitesimals, you divide by the time, then set the time to zero

Source

Philip Kitcher (The Nature of Mathematical Knowledge [1984], 10.2)

Book Reference

Kitcher,Philip: 'The Nature of Mathematical Knowledge' [OUP 1984], p.238