Philosophy of Mathematics: An Introduction

by David Bostock

Philosophy of Mathematics: An Introduction provides a critical analysis of the major philosophical issues and viewpoints in the concepts and methods of mathematics - from antiquity to the modern era.

Offers beginning readers a critical appraisal of philosophical viewpoints throughout history Gives a separate chapter to predicativism, which is often (but wrongly) treated as if it were a part of logicism Provides readers with a non-partisan discussion until the final chapter, which gives the author's personal opinion on where the truth lies Designed to be accessible to both undergraduates and graduate students, and at the same time to be of interest to professionals

344 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2009

Reviews

[Cor]

Bostack took the perspective of fictionalism, but concealed this from readers. The book summary presents the book as an introduction to the topic of mathematical philosophy for students, and misleads the readers into believing that this is a historical account of the subject first, and critical analysis second. Bostack often misinterprets the perspectives of the historical figures' philosophies he critically offends, and goes off on long tangents of his critical disagreements, completely oblivious to his misinterpretations. I am afraid this would do more harm than good for students and newcomers to the subject.

[Nick]

Interesting (if you like this sort of thing), clearly written, and more comprehensive than I expected. Be warned, though: you'll struggle with this unless you already have at least a basic understanding of both philosophical writing and logic. It's not quite as accessible as the blurb makes out, and as somebody with no prior knowledge of logic notation I found some of the second half a struggle.