Semantics and the Ontology of Number (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781108456258)

What are the meanings of number expressions, and what can they tell us about questions of central importance to the philosophy of mathematics, specifically 'Do numbers exist?' This Element attempts to shed light on this question by outlining a recent debate between substantivalists and adjectivalists regarding the semantic function of number words in numerical statements. After highlighting their motivations and challenges, I develop a comprehensive polymorphic semantics for number expressions. I argue that accounting for the numerous meanings and how they are related leads to a strengthened argument for realism, one which renders familiar forms of nominalism highly implausible.

Author: Eric Snyder
ISBN-10: 1108456251
ISBN-13: 9781108456258
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Language: English
Published: 05/20/2021
Pages: 75
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.30lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.19d