
Mathematics and Explanation
Christopher Pincock(Author)
Cambridge University Press
Published on 25. May 2023
Book
Paperback/Softback
88 pages
978-1-009-01766-4 (ISBN)
Description
This Element answers four questions. Can any traditional theory of scientific explanation make sense of the place of mathematics in explanation? If traditional monist theories are inadequate, is there some way to develop a more flexible, but still monist, approach that will clarify how mathematics can help to explain? What sort of pluralism about explanation is best equipped to clarify how mathematics can help to explain in science and in mathematics itself? Finally, how can the mathematical elements of an explanation be integrated into the physical world? Some of the evidence for a novel scientific posit may be traced to the explanatory power that this posit would afford, were it to exist. Can a similar kind of explanatory evidence be provided for the existence of mathematical objects, and if not, why not?
Reviews / Votes
'[T]his book's survey of positions and arguments will be of use to those familiar with the debate over the role of mathematics in explanation, who are looking for guidance on becoming experts.' Bradford Skow, MetascienceMore details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Illustrations
Worked examples or Exercises
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 5 mm
Weight
127 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-009-01766-4 (9781009017664)
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Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Christopher Pincock
Mathematics and Explanation
E-Book
05/2023
Cambridge University Press
€20.99
Available for download
Person
Content
1. The challenge to traditional theories of scientific explanation; 2. Counterfactual accounts of mathematical explanation; 3. Explanatory pluralism; 4. Autonomy, indispensability and inference to the best explanation; References.