The Nature of Mathematical Knowledge

by Philip Kitcher

This book argues against the view that mathematical knowledge is a priori, contending that mathematics is an empirical science and develops historically, just as natural sciences do. Kitcher presents a complete, systematic, and richly detailed account of the nature of mathematical knowledge and its historical development, focusing on such neglected issues as how and why mathematical language changes, why certain questions assume overriding importance, and how standards of proof are modified.

Genres: Philosophy, Mathematics, Science

300 pages, Paperback

First published April 21, 1983

About the author

Philip Kitcher is John Dewey Professor of Philosophy at Columbia University. He was the first recipient of the American Philosophical Association's Prometheus Prize for his work to expand the frontiers of science and philosophy.

Reviews

[Andrea]

Oh how I hated this.

[Cold]

Ha. This book was bizarrely emotional, pure undergrad nostalgia. I wish I read the chapter on the history of calculus before I studied analysis.