Naturalism and Mathematics: Some Problems
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-5-2016
Abstract
In this chapter, I consider some problems with naturalizing mathematics. More specifically, I consider how the two leading kinds of approach to naturalizing mathematics, to wit, Quinean indispensability-based approaches and Maddy's Second Philosophical approach, seem to run afoul of constraints that any satisfactory naturalistic mathematics must meet. I then suggest that the failure of these kinds of approach to meet the relevant constraints indicates a general problem with naturalistic mathematics meeting these constraints, and thus with the project of naturalizing mathematics itself.
Publication Source (Journal or Book title)
The Blackwell Companion to Naturalism
First Page
289
Last Page
304
Recommended Citation
Roland, J. (2016). Naturalism and Mathematics: Some Problems. The Blackwell Companion to Naturalism, 289-304. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118657775.ch21