2 ms·
The definition as stated is circular. It has the same information content as "A foo is an object that you build to act like the concept of a foo." Also, the s
by lisper 5y ago
The definition as stated is circular. It has the same information content as "A foo is an object that you build to act like the concept of a foo."
Also, the symbols that stand for numbers have a name. They are called numerals.
So: a number is an abstraction of a quantity, which is a number plus a unit. "Seven sheep" is a quantity of sheep. "Seven bushels of grain" is a quantity of grain. "Seven acres of land" is a quantity of land. "Seven" is the abstract property that these things have in common, and the symbol "7" is the numeral that denotes this property.
- bawolff 5y agoI don't think its circular, just really informal. The two usages of the word "number" are refering to two different meanings of the word. If your original objection was a lack of formality, i'd say its a matter of taste, audience and author intent, but ultimately a fair objection. But this seems very far afield from your original complaint.
- deleted 5y ago[deleted]