Metaphysics in Mathematics

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to outline various philosophies on the metaphysics of mathematics that have been prominent since the time of Cantor, highlighting some biographical aspects that have influenced these ideas as well. The main topics will be the independent existence of mathematics and controversies over the nature of the mathematical infinite. After describing these ideas, I will demonstrate some of the similarities that are common to these philosophies, showing that despite reaching different conclusions many are guided by the same driving idea.