| Platonism and Anti-Platonism in Mathematics Contributor(s): Balaguer, Mark (Author) |
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ISBN: 0195143981 ISBN-13: 9780195143980 Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA OUR PRICE: $74.25 Product Type: Paperback - Other Formats Published: July 2001 Annotation: In this book, Balaguer demonstrates that there are no good arguments for or against mathematical platonism. He does this by establishing that both platonism and anti-platonism are defensible. (Philosophy) |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - Philosophy | History & Surveys - Ancient & Classical - Mathematics - Philosophy | Logic |
| Dewey: 510.1 |
| LCCN: 97033108 |
| Lexile Measure: 1480 |
| Physical Information: 0.7" H x 6.07" W x 9.26" (0.83 lbs) 240 pages |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: In this highly absorbing work, Balaguer demonstrates that no good arguments exist either for or against mathematical platonism-for example, the view that abstract mathematical objects do exist and that mathematical theories are descriptions of such objects. Balaguer does this by establishing that both platonism and anti-platonism are justifiable views. Introducing a form of platonism, called full-blooded platonism, that solves all problems traditionally associated with the view, he proceeds to defend anti-platonism (in particular, mathematical fictionalism) against various attacks-most notably the Quine-Putnam indispensability attack. He concludes by arguing that it is not simply that we do not currently have any good arguments for or against platonism but that we could never have such an argument. This lucid and accessible book breaks new ground in its area of engagement and makes vital reading for both specialists and all those intrigued by the philosophy of mathematics, or metaphysics in general. |
