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An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics Mark Colyvan (University of Sydney)

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics By Mark Colyvan (University of Sydney)

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics by Mark Colyvan (University of Sydney)


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Summary

Topics covered include the realism/anti-realism debate in mathematics, the limits of mathematics, the significance of mathematical notation, inconsistent mathematics and the applications of mathematics. Intended as a primary text for an introductory undergraduate course in the philosophy of mathematics.

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics Summary

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics by Mark Colyvan (University of Sydney)

This introduction to the philosophy of mathematics focuses on contemporary debates in an important and central area of philosophy. The reader is taken on a fascinating and entertaining journey through some intriguing mathematical and philosophical territory, including such topics as the realism/anti-realism debate in mathematics, mathematical explanation, the limits of mathematics, the significance of mathematical notation, inconsistent mathematics and the applications of mathematics. Each chapter has a number of discussion questions and recommended further reading from both the contemporary literature and older sources. Very little mathematical background is assumed and all of the mathematics encountered is clearly introduced and explained using a wide variety of examples. The book is suitable for an undergraduate course in philosophy of mathematics and, more widely, for anyone interested in philosophy and mathematics.

An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics Reviews

'The present book is like a warm breeze after a cold winter in the rarefied atmosphere of the philosophy of mathematics ... the philosophical discussions are always clear, provocative and stimulating. One of the challenges an instructor will face by adopting this book will undoubtedly be to contain the desire of students to discuss in depth some of the issues presented and to curb their enthusiasm and desire to know more or find answers to the questions.' Mathematical Reviews

About Mark Colyvan (University of Sydney)

Mark Colyvan is Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Sydney Centre for the Foundations of Science at the University of Sydney. He is the co-author (with Lev Ginzburg) of Ecological Orbits: How Planets Move and Populations Grow (2004) and author of The Indispensability of Mathematics (2001).

Table of Contents

1. Mathematics and its philosophy; 2. The limits of mathematics; 3. Plato's heaven; 4. Fiction, metaphor, and partial truths; 5. Mathematical explanation; 6. The applicability of mathematics; 7. Who's afraid of inconsistent mathematics?; 8. A rose by any other name; 9. Epilogue: desert island theorems.

Additional information

GOR009613323
9780521533416
0521533414
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics by Mark Colyvan (University of Sydney)
Used - Good
Paperback
Cambridge University Press
2012-06-14
200
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us

Customer Reviews - An Introduction to the Philosophy of Mathematics