Mathematics, Unity, and the Good: Plato, Whitehead, Aristotle

This book demonstrates that mathematical positions are based on metaphysical elements, which in turn provide schemata for evaluating and expanding metaphysical positions. The argument is grounded in the Platonic notion of the good, Whitehead’s late essay on mathematics and the good, and Aristotle’s sustained criticisms of Platonic philosophy of mathematics. Bridging ancient and modern thought, from Phaedoto the modern notion of Abelian groups in mathematics, it demonstrates that both mathematics and metaphysics incorporate contrast-rich experience and context-independent formalism and-at their best-can be partners in helping to discern fundamental features of the fullness of reality. David A. White explores how developments in mathematics and mathematical understanding can indicate, illustrate, and contribute to assessing metaphysical considerations when accounts of reality are approached from the standpoint of an articulated representation of the good.

David A. White is adjunct associate professor of philosophy at DePaul University, USA.