Unit information: Philosophy and History of Mathematics in 2012/13

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Unit name Philosophy and History of Mathematics
Unit code PHILM0016
Credit points 20
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director Professor. Horsten
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

School/department Department of Philosophy
Faculty Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit covers philosopical issues related to mathematics, discussing issues such as the nature of mathematical objects (numbers, sets, functions,<HORIZONTAL ELLIPSIS>), the justification of mathematical claims ("2+2=4", the Continuum Hypothesis), and the meaning of mathematical expressions.

Aims:

The aim of this seminar is to bring students to a level where they can understand and critically interact with recent research in philosophy and history of mathematics. After taking this seminar, they should be ready to carry out research that makes a contribution to the state of knowledge in the field.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students should:

  1. Have knowledge and understanding of core issues in the philosophy of mathematics including issues to do with the ontology and epistemology of mathematics. Have knowledge and understanding of the skills and methodology required to do work in these areas.
  1. Be able to give clear and concise presentations, both orally and in written form, of complex and technical material. Be able to make effective use of Information Technology. Be able to conduct independent research into a new topic, using online and library resources. Be able to analyze and understand difficult texts and critically assess them. And be able to write clear academic prose.

Teaching Information

Lectures, seminars, and essay tutorials where necessary.

Assessment Information

One essay of 5,000-6,000 words (excluding notes and bibliography)

Reading and References

The readings focus on one theme in recent philosophy (or history) of mathematics, such as: structuralism, philosophy of set theory,..

Background reading:

Benacerraf, P. & Putnam, H. Philosophy of Mathematics. Selected Readings. Second Edition. Cambridge University Press, 1980

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