Title
Social construction in the philosophy of mathematics: A critical evaluation of Julian Cole’s theory
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2010
Department/School
History and Philosophy
Abstract
Julian Cole argues that mathematical domains are the products of social construction. This view has an initial appeal in that it seems to salvage much that is good about traditional platonistic realism without taking on the ontological baggage. However, it also has problems. After a brief sketch of social constructivist theories and Cole’s philosophy of mathematics, I evaluate the arguments in favor of social constructivism. I also discuss two substantial problems with the theory. I argue that unless and until social constructivists can address the two concerns, we have reason to be skeptical about social constructivism in the philosophy of mathematics.
Link to Published Version
Recommended Citation
Dieterle, J. M. (2010). Social construction in the philosophy of mathematics: A critical evaluation of Julian Cole’s theory. Philosophia Mathematica, 18(3), 311–328. doi:10.1093/philmat/nkq007