Mathematical Simulacra: The Opening of a Discourse on Mathematical Deconstruction
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2022
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Haverford College. Department of Philosophy
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Thesis
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eng
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Open Access
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Abstract
Historically, mathematical language has been relegated as supplemental to an ideal pure mathematics. This paper uses Derridean tools of deconstruction to examine the role of the mathematical supplement. I argue that the limits of our mathematical language are both constitutive and productive in an evolving mathematical discourse. Additionally, I consider the particular and curious sturdiness of mathematical language in comparison to its natural language counterpart. I argue that this "mathematical sturdiness" is on one end due to the tightly iterative and citational nature of the language while at the same time a result of the practiced disciplinary power of mathematics as a historical and academic discipline.