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HomeUpcoming EventsJustin Clarke-Doane (Monash): What Is The Benacerraf Problem?
Justin Clarke-Doane (Monash): What is the Benacerraf Problem?

In "Mathematical Truth", Paul Benacerraf articulated an epistemological problem for mathematical realism.  His formulation of the problem relied on a causal theory of knowledge which is now widely rejected.  But it is generally agreed that Benacerraf was onto a problem for mathematical realism nevertheless.  Hartry Field describes it as the problem of explaining our reliability with respect to the mathematical truth, realistically conceived.  I shall argue that, unless the Benacerraf Problem is a problem with which it has traditionally been contrasted, it cannot be made out.  There simply is no intelligible Benacerraf Problem.  The broader relevance of this conclusion, especially to recent debates surrounding so-called "genealogical debunking arguments", will be discussed.

Date & time

  • Thu 15 Sep 2011, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Location

Coombs Seminar Room A

Event Series

Philosophy Departmental Seminars