Mathematics and Philosophy

Abstract

My statement is supposed to be an encouragement, an introduction to a discussion about connections between philosophy and mathematics. Such an introduction should contain statements provoking a response. In this case it is not too difficult. I just look at mathematics slightly differently than most of my colleagues. That is the case perhaps because I came to mathematics “from outside.” I was interested in biology and economics, I studied physics and only later did I become a mathematician. I am of course aware of the fact that the relationship between philosophy, mathematics and reality is difficult and that I may be wrong in many, or maybe even in all my points. I would gladly correct my views upon hearing appropriate arguments. However, what I will say here is what I deeply believe in, not just a way for me to sate my natural need to formulate everything as strictly as possible. I divided my statement into six theses. Of course the division is quite arbitrary and some of the points are closely related.