Naturalism in Mathematics - Softcover

Maddy, Penelope

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0198250754 ISBN 13: 9780198250753

Publisher: Clarendon Press, 2000

Synopsis

Naturalism in Mathematics investigates how the most fundamental assumptions of mathematics can be justified. One prevalent philosophical approach to the problem--realism--is examined and rejected in favor of another approach--naturalism. Penelope Maddy defines this naturalism, explains the motivation for it, and shows how it can be successfully applied in set theory. Her clear, original treatment of this fundamental issue is informed by current work in both philosophy and mathematics, and will be accessible and enlightening to readers from both disciplines.

About this title

About the Author:

Penelope Maddy is Professor of Philosophy at the University of California, Irvine, having previously held positions at the University of Illinois, Chicago, and the University of Notre Dame.

Review:

"Stylistically the book is an enjoyably readable and beautifully clear. In particular Maddy has a near-miraculous gift for explaining mathematical technicalities in a way that is comprehensible to the non-expert. The book is therefore well worth reading not just for the new and bold philosophical position it promotes, but also as a philosopher's guide to what is going on in contemporary set theory." The Philosophical Review

"Maddy's knowledge of early and contemporary set theory, and of philosophically significant parts of the history of mathematics generally, is impressively wide and deep, and her discussions of these matters are illuminating and rewarding. She writes in a clear, forthright and challenging style. Her book is eminently readable, instructive, and thought-provoking."--The Journal of Symbolic Logic

About this edition

• Publisher: Clarendon Press
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0198250754
• ISBN 13: 9780198250753
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 264