Constructive mathematics is distinguished from its traditional counterpart, classical mathematics, by the strict interpretation of the phrase `there exists' as `we can construct'. In order to effort constructively, we need to re-interpret not only the existential quantifier but all the logical connectives and quantifiers as instructions on how to construct a proof of the statement involving these logical expressions. From the Stanford Encyclopedia.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117738
A study guide on the Philosophy of Mathematics provided by The Objectivist Center, including a study guide on the subject.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117749
In 1921, David Hilbert made a proposal for a formalist foundation of mathematics, for which a finitary consistency proof should establish the security of mathematics. From the Stanford Encyclopedia, by Richard Zach.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117753
Inconsistent mathematics is the study of the mathematical theories that result when classical mathematical axioms are asserted within the framework of a (non-classical) logic which can tolerate the presence of a contradiction in the absence of turning every sentence into a theorem. By Chris Mortensen, from the Stanford Encyclopedia.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117739
Indispensability Arguments in the Philosophy of Mathematics
From the fact that mathematics is much-needed to science, some philosophers have drawn serious metaphysical conclusions. In particular, Quine and Putnam have argued that the indispensability of mathematics to empirical science gives us good reason to believe in the existence of mathematical entities. From the Stanford Encyclopedia.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117737
Intuitionistic logic encompasses the principles of logical reasoning which were used by L. E. J. Brouwer in developing his intuitionistic mathematics, beginning in [1907]. Because these principles also underly Russian recursive analysis and the constructive analysis of E. Bishop and his followers, intuitionistic logic may be considered the logical basis of constructive mathematics. From the Stanford Encyclopedia.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117736
Philosophical-historical survey of the development of geometry in the 19th century. From the Stanford Encyclopedia, by Roberto Toretti.
(Added: Thu Jan 01 2004) ID 117741
