Beyond the methodology of mathematics research programmes

Philosophia Mathematica 6 (3):272-301 (1998)
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Abstract

In this paper I assess the obstacles to a transfer of Lakatos's methodology of scientific research programmes to mathematics. I argue that, if we are to use something akin to this methodology to discuss modern mathematics with its interweaving theoretical development, we shall require a more intricate construction and we shall have to move still further away from seeing mathematical knowledge as a collection of statements. I also examine the notion of rivalry within mathematics and claim that this appears to be significant only at a high level. In addition, ideas of ‘progress’ in mathematics are outlined.

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David Corfield
University of Kent at Canterbury

Citations of this work

The ‘Popperian Programme’ and mathematics.Eduard Glas - 2001 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part A 32 (2):355-376.
The importance of mathematical conceptualisation.David Corfield - 2001 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part A 32 (3):507-533.
Mathematical engineering and mathematical change.Jean-Pierre Marquis - 1999 - International Studies in the Philosophy of Science 13 (3):245 – 259.

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References found in this work

Semantics And Cognition.Ray S. Jackendoff - 1983 - Cambridge: MIT Press.
The mathematical experience.Philip J. Davis - 1981 - Boston: Birkhäuser. Edited by Reuben Hersh & Elena Marchisotto.
What Is This Thing Called Science?A. F. Chalmers - 1979 - Erkenntnis 14 (3):393-404.
Why did Einstein's programme supersede lorentz's? (I).Elie Zahar - 1973 - British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 24 (2):95-123.

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