What is mathematics about and how do we acquire mathematical knowledge? Mathematics seems to be about numbers, but what exactly are numbers? Are numbers and other mathematical objects something discovered or invented? Daniel Sutherland discusses some of these issues in the philosophy of mathematics, explaining some of the basic difficulties involved in trying to say what numbers are and how we come to know them. Are numbers mere mental constructs, something invented by us? If so, then why does mathematics work so well and seem to describe the world? On the other hand, if numbers are "out there" in some sense waiting to be discovered, then what is their status and how do we get knowledge of them? After all, you can't see or touch numbers and other mathematical objects. And unlike ordinary empirical truths, mathematical truths seem to have a quite different and special status: they are a priori, necessary, eternal, universal, and absolutely certain. (My Description)
This is a version of an upload from the other channel. It comes from an episode of Elucidations, a philosophy podcast from the University of Chicago. For more information about the podcast and more episodes, go to: https://lucian.uchicago.edu/blogs/elucidations
Another good introduction to the philosophy of mathematics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhX1ouUjDHE
A more advanced talk on philosophy of mathematics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucPhfzCvKnE
#Philosophy #Epistemology #Mathematics