Philosophy of Science Higher Seminar: Casey McCoy (Yonsei U)

Seminar

Date: Thursday 25 January 2024

Time: 13.15 – 15.00

Location: D700

Why are functions important in mathematics?

Abstract

Mathematicians hold up the concept of function as the most important and central in all of mathematics. My question is, "why exactly is it so important?" There are many possible answers depending on how functions are conceptualized and depending on the point of view adopted.

In this talk, I will consider historical and pragmatic conditions,  but focus especially on comparing the foundational perspectives of set theory and category theory on the mathematical function.