2007-2008
UF MATHEMATICS COLLOQUIUM
Math History Series
Monday, Feb. 25, 4:05 p.m.
121 Little Hall
Refreshments at 5:00 in the Atrium (Little 339)
2007-2008
UF MATHEMATICS COLLOQUIUM
Math History Series
Monday, Feb. 25, 4:05 p.m.
121 Little Hall
Refreshments at 5:00 in the Atrium (Little 339)
Three mathematical conflicts revisited in the light of probatio duplex
Abstract. Three mathematical conflicts illustrate the misunderstandings that may result from neglecting the methodological complementarity (analysis vs. synthesis) taught in the ancient probatio duplex. The conflicts are:
(1) the calculus war between the Newtonian and Leibnizian tribes;
(2) the misinterpretation of different intentions (explanation vs. description) in promoting universal gravitation;
(3) the attempts to conjugate the efforts of collaborators and disciples of Bourbaki and of Piaget toward a viable reform of the teaching of mathematics.