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> A number is an informal concept in mathematics. No, it isn't. You're just wrong about that. Now, it is true that there are different kinds of numbers in ma
by lisper 5y ago
> A number is an informal concept in mathematics.
No, it isn't. You're just wrong about that.
Now, it is true that there are different kinds of numbers in math, but each different kind of number is formally defined. All of those definitions are interrelated, and collectively they define what it means to be a number. There is nothing informal about it.
- threatofrain 5y ago> All of those definitions are interrelated, and collectively they define what it means to be a number. There is nothing informal about it. Then you could simply point to the formalism which unites various mathematical activity under some universal model of number. I will reiterate the claim again — "number" is an informal concept among mathematicians and they are fine with that.