Matter, Imagination and Geometry: Ontology, Natural Philosophy and Mathematics in Plotinus, Proclus and Descartes: Ontology

The text explores the applicability of mathematics to the study of natural phenomena, addressing problems of matter, substance, infinity, number, structure of cognitive faculties, imagination, and construction and mathematical object. It examines mathematical objects in relation to geometrical or intelligible matter and imagination, focusing on key thinkers of late antiquity and early modernity, such as Plotinus and Descartes.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 01 January 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This title, originally published in 2002, explores the role of mathematics in understanding natural phenomena. It posits that mathematics is essential for the theoretical and practical success of modern science, addressing issues such as matter, substance, infinity, number, cognitive faculties, imagination, and construction of mathematical objects. The author examines mathematical objects in relation to geometrical or intelligible matter and imagination, drawing on key thinkers from late antiquity and early modernity, including Plotinus and Descartes, with occasional references to Plato, Aristotle, Euclid, Proclus, Newton, and others. The fundamental presuppositions of ripe antiquity and early modernity are explored in their works, providing a foundation for understanding the development of mathematics and its impact on the study of natural phenomena.

ISBN-13: 9781138724549