Talk:Beginning Mathematics/What is Mathematics?

I am not quite happy with the enthusiastic introduction. Two flaws apparently come to mind: First, it is not at all obvious that math is a Universal Language across species. In fact, we have overwhelming evidence that we can not use math to communicate with other living entities like plants or animals. We can efficiently communicate with our pets, but not through use of mathematics, but by other means such as body language, etc.

Second, much is not known about the development of mathematics, and how it relates to language. That there is a strong connection between language (syntax) and our mathematical abilities seems clear. But the particulars of this connection, and its historic development is pretty much unknown. It seems to me the article should be toned down a lot(!) and give appropriate references for curious readers. 17:10, 25 June 2007 (UTC)

By the account of "Where did Mathematics come from?", my dog does mathematics! 12 Sept 2007 RJM

Yes, I am in agreement with the poster above. 216.221.91.101 (talk) 01:07, 6 March 2008 (UTC)

I am exceedingly unhappy with the introduction. The author point blank states the constructionist hypothesis, with no reference to the platonic or intuitionist schools. Although neoplatonism is objectionable to many humanists due to a mistaken belief that it is a form of Theism, there are many mathematicians who believe that mathematics exists outside the human context, and that there is a form of "abstract reality" within which mathematics exists. Otherwise we are asked to believe that the 1+0=1 is only true in human context, which in turn raises the question as to whether the universe would exist were there no humans to observe it.

I don't believe that a discussion of the nature of the existence of maths belongs in a "Beginning Mathematics" book. 121.222.243.151 (talk) 21:34, 16 December 2008 (UTC)