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851-0184-00L 3 Credits DS , DR , MSC D-GESS

Pluralist Philosophy of Mathematics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Roy Wagner

VVZ CR 4.2

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:02:02

Abstract

This course will follow Michèle Friend's book "pluralism in mathematics". It will survey various mainstream philosophies of mathematics, and suggest a pluralist integration.

Objective

The goal is to introduce students to mainstream philosophies of mathematics, allow them to critically examine common views about mathematics, develop their analytic skills by handling philosophical questions, and enable a pluralist approach to philosophical questions.

Content

The course will examine realist, constructivist, structuralist and formalist philosophies of mathematics, and follow Friend in suggesting a pluralist approach that combines the various positions based on our agnosticism as to the best philosophy and a paraconsistent approach to philosophical logic. In this course we will learn the various positions, critically evaluate Friend's arguments, and consider the general merits and limitations of pluralist and paraconsistent philosophical approaches.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: DS , DR , MSC

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

The course will require a weekly reading of around 20 pages and regular mini-feedback task. 4-5 mini-essays will be submitted during the semester to show understanding of the material. There is no final exam or essay at the end of the semester. Presence in class is expected, and active participation in class discussion may be rewarded in the final grade.

Registration & Places

Max Places: 120

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Pluralist Philosophy of Mathematics	Mon 16:15-18:00 (HG F 1)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
- Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
- Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses. Particularly relevant for students interested in those subjects. All these courses are also listed under the category “Typ A”, and every student can enroll in these courses.)
  - D-MATH
  - D-INFK
History and Philosophy of Knowledge Master
- Basic Courses
  - Lectures and Exercises
Doctorate Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )
- Subject Specialisation