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Philosophy of Mathematics

Key information

  • Module code:

    7AAN6021

  • Level:

    7

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

 What is the subject matter of mathematics? Is it abstract mathematical objects, or can apparent facts about mathematical objects be reduced to facts about something else? Assuming we have knowledge of mathematical facts, how is this knowledge acquired? Despite being essential to the sciences (and often thought of as one of the sciences), the non-empirical nature of mathematics raises epistemological and metaphysical questions quite distinct from those that arise in, say, physics. This course will examine approaches to answering these questions, including varieties of Platonism, and various forms of nominalism. We’ll also take a close look at the role of mathematics in the sciences, with the aim of evaluating one of the key arguments in the debate between the Platonist and the nominalist: the indispensability argument.

Assessment details

Summative assessment: one 3,500-word essay (100%).

Teaching pattern

One weekly one-hour lecture and one weekly one-hour seminar.

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.