Confirming mathematical theories
an ontologically agnostic stance
pp. 257-277
Abstract
The Quine/Putnam indispensability approach to the confirmation of mathematical theories in recent times has been the subject of significant criticism. In this paper I explore an alternative to the Quine/Putnam indispensability approach. I begin with a van Fraassen-like distinction between accepting the adequacy of a mathematical theory and believing in the truth of a mathematical theory. Finally, I consider the problem of moving from the adequacy of a mathematical theory to its truth. I argue that the prospects for justifying this move are qualitatively worse in mathematics than they are in science.
Publication details
Published in:
(1999) Synthese 118 (2).
Pages: 257-277
Full citation:
Peressini Anthony F. (1999) „Confirming mathematical theories: an ontologically agnostic stance“. Synthese 118 (2), 257–277.