Synopses & Reviews
Hellman here presents a detailed interpretation of mathematics as the investigation of "structural possibilities," as opposed to absolute, Platonic objects. After treating the natural numbers and analysis, he extends the approach to set theory, where he demonstrates how to dispense with a fixed universe of sets. Finally, he addresses problems of application to the physical world.
Review
"An exciting and intriguing book, rich in ideas and not short on technical ingenuity, that will doubtless repay careful study."--Philosophical Review
"A breath-taking blend of philosophy, mathematics, and logic....Rich, subtle, and insightful."--Nous
"Several important insights are woven together and brought to bear on the nature of mathematics in this signal contribution to the philosophy of the field."--Mathematical Reviews