Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - PHIL 345W D100

Philosophy of Mathematics (3)

Class Number: 7192

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Oct 11, 2024: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 16 – Dec 3, 2024: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    One of PHIL 110, 210, 314, 315 or MACM 101.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines central philosophical issues related to mathematics. Topics may include the metaphysical status of mathematical entities, mathematical knowledge, set theory and others. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces students to the philosophy of mathematics and explores the field's major themes. We will investigate questions about the existence of mathematical objects, the possibility for and acquisition of mathematical knowledge, the notion of proof, and the role of mathematics in science, among others. Students will read, discuss, and write about papers by both philosophers and mathematicians.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course may be applied towards the Writing Requirement.  

PHIL 345W is approved to satisfy the upper division Writing requirement for Mathematics and Applied Mathematics students, but will not count as a Math course (please contact the MATH Advisor if you require more details). Therefore this course can also be used towards a philosophy minor by Math students. 

Grading

  • Syllabus quiz and survey 2%
  • Weekly written reading responses, in-class 48%
  • Three essay assignments (16.66% each) 50%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students must bring the assigned reading to class. It is highly recommended that students print the readings but accessing them via a personal computer is acceptable.

 

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be made available through Canvas. No book purchases are necessary, but it is highly recommended that students print out the assigned readings.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Thinking of a Philosophy Major or Minor? The Concentration in Law and Philosophy? The Certificate in Ethics? The Philosophy and Methodology of Science Certificate?
Contact the PHIL Advisor at philcomm@sfu.ca   More details on our website: SFU Philosophy

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.