"Strict finitism is a very attractive view that has generally suffered just from the sense that it couldn't reproduce enough mathematics. This book takes strides toward removing that worry and making the view a viable alternative." James Tappenden, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, U. S. A.
Strict Finitism and the Logic of Mathematical Applications
von Feng YeThis book intends to show that radical naturalism (or physicalism), nominalism and strict finitism account for the applications of classical mathematics in current scientific theories. The applied mathematical theories developed in the book include the basics of calculus, metric space theory, complex analysis, Lebesgue integration, Hilbert spaces, and semi-Riemann geometry (sufficient for the applications in classical quantum mechanics and general relativity). The fact that so much applied mathematics can be developed within such a weak, strictly finitistic system, is surprising in itself. It also shows that the applications of those classical theories to the finite physical world can be translated into the applications of strict finitism, which demonstrates the applicability of those classical theories without assuming the literal truth of those theories or the reality of infinity.
Both professional researchers and students of philosophy of mathematics will benefit greatly from reading this book.
