Doing mathematics paraconsistently. A manifesto

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MCMP – Logic

Miscellaneous


Conference on Paraconsistent Reasoning in Science and Mathematics , Maarten McKubre-Jordens (Canterbury) gives a talk at the Conference on Paraconsistent Reasoning in Science and Mathematics (11-13 June, 2014) titled "Doing mathematics paraconsistently. A manifesto". Abstract: In this talk, we outline several motivations for conducting mathematics–in the style of the working mathematician–without dependence on assumptions of non-contradiction. The story involves a short analysis of theorem and counterexample, what it is to reason paraconsistently within mathematics, and takes note of some non-traditional obstacles and attempts to resolve them. In part, this will provide motivation to the mathematician to think outside the box when approaching surprising conclusions within the usual framework. Then, as we delve into the mathematics, we survey some recent results in elementary analysis when performed paraconsistently, and outline some conjectures for future research. This talk is of interest both to provide reasons and techniques for paraconsistent mathematics, and to show how rich a picture can be painted without recourse to assumptions of non-contradiction.