The Origin of Quantification

MacKinnon, Edward (2013) The Origin of Quantification. Open Journal of Philosophy, 03 (04). pp. 6-9. ISSN 2163-9434

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Abstract

Neither the Greek nor the Alexandrian nor the early Arabic philosopher/scientists ever developed a mathematical representation of qualities, a prerequisite for a mathematical physics. By the early seventeenth century the quantification of qualities was a common practice. This article traces the way this practice developed. It originated with a medievally theological problem and was developed by philosophical logicians who did not have mathematical physics as a goal. The verbal algebra they developed was given a mathematical formulation in the late fifteenth century. This was subsequently assimilated into a neo-Platonic revival that stressed mathematical forms. The quantification of qualities developed in physics supplied the paradigm for quantification in other fields.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: Library Keep > Social Sciences and Humanities
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email support@librarykeep.com
Date Deposited: 03 Mar 2023 11:06
Last Modified: 02 Mar 2024 04:43
URI: http://archive.jibiology.com/id/eprint/248

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