PY4633 Philosophy of Mathematics

Academic year

2025 to 2026 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

30

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 10

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

We cap all single-taught Honours modules at 24 students. Spaces in oversubscribed modules are assigned by random ballot.

Planned timetable

TBC

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr M S J Bowen

Dr M S J Bowen
This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr Miriam Bowen

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This course is a survey of philosophy of mathematics. Mathematics seems to be a priori and the truths of mathematics appear to be necessary. The objects of mathematics appear to be abstract. These features of mathematics give rise to a number of philosophical questions. This module will explore some of the classical and contemporary approaches to answering questions that arise in the philosophy of mathematics.

Assessment pattern

Coursework - 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework - 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

1x2-hr lecture and 1x1-hr seminar (X11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours

33

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

264

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge of some of the central topics in the philosophy of mathematics
  • Relate questions in the philosophy of mathematics to wider issues in philosophy and the foundations of mathematics
  • Demonstrate knowledge of some of the historical development of key approaches to the philosophy of mathematics
  • Make connections among different areas of mathematical inquiry, and reflect critically on the strengths and weaknesses of each approach