VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

851-0125-65L 3 Credits DS , DR , MSC D-GESS , D-ARCH

You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

A Sampler of Histories and Philosophies of Mathematics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Roy Wagner

Particularly suitable for students D-CHAB, D-INFK, D-ITET, D-MATH, D-PHYS

VVZ CR 3.8

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:49

Abstract

This course will review several case studies from the ancient, medieval and modern history of mathematics. The case studies will be analyzed from various philosophical perspectives, while situating them in their historical and cultural contexts.

Objective

The course aims are: 1. To introduce students to the historicity of mathematics 2. To make sense of mathematical practices that appear unreasonable from a contemporary point of view 3. To develop critical reflection concerning the nature of mathematical objects 4. To introduce various theoretical approaches to the philosophy and history of mathematics 5. To open the students' horizons to the plurality of mathematical cultures and practices

General Information

Language: English
Levels: DS , DR , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

The course will require a weekly reading of around 20 pages and small weekly tasks. The final grade will be based on an the grades of some of these tasks. Presence in class is expected, and active contribution to class discussions may be rewarded in the final grade.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	A Sampler of Histories and Philosophies of Mathematics	Thu 17:00-19:00 (ER SA TZ) Thu 17:15-19:00 (HG D 3.2) 20.02 Date 17:15-19:00 (HG E 1.2) 27.02 Date 17:15-19:00 (HG E 1.2)	2 h weekly

Offered In

GESS Science in Perspective (Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "GESS Science in Perspective" courses. Further below you will find courses under the category "Type B courses Reflections about subject specific methods and content" as well as the language courses. During the Bachelor’s degree Students should acquire at least 6 ECTS and during the Master’s degree 2 ECTS. Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again.)
- Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (Suitable for all students. Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again.)
  - History
  - Philosophy
- Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses: Recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the same course again. All these courses are listed under the category “Typ A”, this means, every student can enroll in these courses.)
  - D-CHAB
  - D-INFK
  - D-ITET
  - D-MATH
  - D-PHYS
History and Philosophy of Knowledge Master
- Basic Courses
  - Lectures and Exercises
Doctoral Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )
- Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Courses
Integrated Building Systems Master
- GESS Science in Perspective