This first of a two-volume book discusses the process of conceptual recasting of mathematical contents under a new and more convenient form, complying with the ideal of epistemic economy (expressing the same content by appealing to fewer or minimal conceptual resources). It accounts for this ideal and discusses its philosophical significance, also in opposition to the most frequently considered ideal of ontological parsimony, in the context of an original approach to mathematical knowledge...

This book is intended as conceptual introduction to three mathematical theories arising from the attempt to understand (actual) infinity. Though the treatment does not avoid technical aspects, it tries to explain their origins and purposes. The book is divided into three parts, each composed of two chapters and a few appendices. Each part presents in detail one of three moments in which mathematicians made a concerted effort to control the idea of infinity: Projective Geometry, Infinitesim...

This book examines three connected aspects of Frege’s logicism: the differences between Dedekind’s and Frege’s interpretation of the term ‘logic’ and related terms and reflects on Frege’s notion of function, comparing its understanding and the role it played in Frege’s and Lagrange’s foundational programs. It concludes with an examination of the notion of arbitrary function, taking into account Frege’s, Ramsey’s and Russell’s view on the subject. Composed of three chapters, this book sheds...

Alexander Grothendieck is often considered one of the greatest mathematicians of the twentieth century (if not all time), and his unique vision continues to impact and inspire many fields and researchers today. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, this edited volume explores the profound influence his work and ideas have had not only on mathematics, but also on logic and philosophy. Chapters are written by international scholars, and many were inspired by talks given at the conference “...

This book brings together young researchers from a variety of fields within mathematics, philosophy and logic. It discusses questions that arise in their work, as well as themes and reactions that appear to be similar in different contexts. The book shows that a fairly intensive activity in the philosophy of mathematics is underway, due on the one hand to the disillusionment with respect to traditional answers, on the other to exciting new features of present day mathematics. The book expl...