Explanation in Mathematics

FAIN: FT-12628-75

Mark J. Steiner
Columbia University (New York, NY 10027-7922)

To study patterns of truth in mathematics, in an attempt to distinguish between mathematical arguments which demonstrate the truth of a mathematical proposition, and those which explain why the proposition is true. Most philosophers regard mathematics as a formal science, P.I. basing study on actual mathematical practice, will stress the continuity of mathematics with the other sciences. This rapprochement--between the Platonist ontology and the empirical epistemology--will be of significance to the humanist, who otherwise may have difficulty assimilating the phenomenon of mathematical knowledge into his world view.