The means to express mathematics is human. It requires language and symbols. But the relationships themselves exist independent of whether or not an intelligent being knows them or can express them. However, it may be that higher math is a human invention not previously in existence.

Simple arithemetic such as you exemplify certainly exists without human invention. Suich simple arithematic as addition is used in the animal kingdom, for example.

Babies according to child psychologists (who have performed the appropriate experiments) know the number system inherently up to three objects. Sorry I cannot provide a reference for those experiments.

So we have evidence that simple math is inherent in human babies and non-humans. It appears to be genetic. But beyond simple arithemetic and in my opinion including geometry, we do not have any evidence that math is not just a human invention. Certainly the langauge and symbols used to express are human inventions.

Appreciatively,

Richard

• One, Two, Three - robertgregory - July 17, 2003 - 06:38 UTC
  • Yes - yanniru - July 17, 2003 - 11:21 UTC