136-308 History and Philosophy of Maths (Sci.3)

This subject is only available to science students for credit at third-year level. Students who have completed 136-208 History and Philosophy of Mathematics are not permitted to enrol in this subject. This subject is based on 136-208 but involves additional work (due during the exam period).

Two second year HPS subjects.

Mathematics, in addition to being a source of important knowledge in its own right, is key to much of science. This class examines theories of what mathematical knowledge is, how it evolves, and how it can apply to the physical world. It examines such questions as: Why do the standards of mathematic rigour change?; What is mathematical truth?; Is mathematics reducible to logic?; Can mathematics by itself tell us anything about the world?; Why is mathematics often so crucial in the natural sciences?; Where did the notion of axiom come from and how has it evolved?; What are the implications of Godel's theorems?; How much of mathematics can be axiomatised?; How does mathematics progress? On completion of the subject students should have a sophisticated understanding of philosophical and historical issues relating to mathematics as well as further develop their skills in critical and theoretical thinking.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• conduct independent research;

• make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

Written work totalling 6000 words, consisting of 2000 words 33% in short weekly mini-papers and two final papers of 2000 words 33% each (due during the exam period).