On Suprasubjective Existence in Mathematics
On Suprasubjective Existence in Mathematics
Author(s): Stanisław KrajewskiSubject(s): Social Sciences, Language and Literature Studies, History of Philosophy, Philosophical Traditions, Special Branches of Philosophy
Published by: Polskie Towarzystwo Semiotyczne
Keywords: mathematics; Platonism; formalism; existence; objective; subjective;intersubjective;suprasubjective; culture; rainbow;
Summary/Abstract: The professional mathematician is a Platonist with regard to the existence of mathematical entities, but, if pressed to tell what kind of existence they have, he hides behind a formalist approach. In order to take both attitudes into account in a possibly serious way, the concept of suprasubjective existence is proposed. It involves intersubjective existence, plus a stress on objectivity devoid of actual objects. The idea is illustrated, following William Byers, by the phenomenon of the rainbow: it is not an object but can be said to possess a subjective objectivity.
Journal: Studia Semiotyczne
- Issue Year: XXXII/2018
- Issue No: 2
- Page Range: 75-86
- Page Count: 12
- Language: English