Mathematics and Analogical Reasoning

Idea and Motivation

The goal of this conference is to investigate the role of mathematics as a heuristic device for analogical reasoning in science and philosophy.

Questions we aim to address at the conference include (but are not limited to):

How can a positive mathematical analogy generate support for a particular theoretical view about otherwise disconnected physical systems?

Can we be sure that epistemic lessons from one domain carry over to another domain, given that there are always known points of disanalogy? If so, how?

Does the fact that shared mathematical structures can generate new scientific insights have a bearing on (enhanced) indispensability arguments for mathematical realism?

How can a mathematical analogy generate understanding of one system given our understanding of the model system?

What is an adequate methodology for analogical reasoning about meta-empirical domains (like mathematics or ethics)?

Are the mathematical background assumptions of recent arguments featuring mathematical analogies plausible (specifically in light of recent pluralist developments in set theory)?

 

Further Information

• Website of the conference "Mathematics and Analogical Reasoning"