Felsefede Matematik Yöntem Kullanımı Üzerine Epistemolojik Bir Araştırma

Abstract

The aim of this study is to conduct an epistemological research on the use of mathematical methods in philosophy. Behind the glorification of mathematics in philosophy and philosophizing through the mathematical method are the thoughts about pure mathematics. In ancient Greece, the Pythagoreans turned mathematics into the discipline of "pure mathematics". Later, Plato was influenced by the approach of the Pythagoreans. According to him, mathematics is the most important tool for thinking correctly and reaching certain knowledge. In later periods, with the influence of the Pythagorean and Platonic traditions praising mathematics the idea that certain knowledge could be achieved in other fields became effective in the following subjects like philosophy, theology, science and ethics. Descartes' project of mathesis universalis, and his attitude of mathematizing the method in order to reach certain knowledge, resulted in Spinoza writing most of his works using the geometric method in the 17th century. In ancient Greece, Aristotle criticized the mathematization of philosophy and he tried to determine mathematical certainty from a realistic perspective. In the 17th century, Francis Bacon also opposed the association of the pure side of mathematics with the divine, and the claims that God and other things can be known through mathematics.In the 18th century, Kant was one of the thinkers who determined that mathematical methods could not be used in philosophy and therefore mathematical certainty could not be expected from it. In this thesis, we will conduct an epistemological research on the origins and development of the understanding of mathematical method and the search for certainty, drawing attention to the following: The main purpose of sciences and philosophy are not to discuss methods and express every subject mathematically. Obtaining only mathematically certain "data" cannot be the main purpose of scientific or philosophical work. In research, the importance of knowing the truth with its reasons and principles should be remembered.