Unit information: Philosophy of Mathematics in 2018/19

Unit name	Philosophy of Mathematics
Unit code	PHIL20039
Credit points	20
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Everett
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Department of Philosophy
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

The unit gives an overview of the main theories in contemporary philosophy of mathematics. It starts with a discussion of the three main foundational schools of the first half of the twentieth century (logicism, intuitionism, formalism). Then the unit further goes on to study recent developments in the philosophy of mathematics such as a modern form of Platonism, nominalism, and structuralism.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate:

1. comprehensive knowledge of the main questions and schools of thought in modern philosophy of mathematics
2. an ability to engage with these questions at a standard appropriate to level I
3. skills in philosophical argumentation.

Teaching Information

22 x 1-hour lectures + 11 x 1-hour seminars

Assessment Information

Formative: 2 x 2,500 word essays (ILOs 1-3)

Summative: 3 hour unseen exam (ILOs 1-3)

Reading and References

Key reading:

Shapiro, S. Thinking About Mathematics, OUP, 2000