The Nature of Mathematical Knowledge

This book argues against the view that mathematical knowledge is a priori,contending that mathematics is an empirical science and develops historically,just as natural sciences do. Kitcher presents a complete, systematic, andrichly detailed account of the nature of mathematical knowledge and itshistorical development, focusing on such neglected issues as how and whymathematical language changes, why certain questions assume overridingimportance, and how standards of proof are modified.