 previous article in this issue | next article in this issue  |
Preview first page |
Document Details : Title: Explanation, Understanding, and Definitions in Mathematics Author(s): COUMANS, Vincent , FRANS, Joachim , DE REGT, Henk W. Journal: Logique et Analyse Volume: 257 Date: 2022 Pages: 79-99 DOI: 10.2143/LEA.257.0.3291072 Abstract : Following trends in the study of explanation in mathematics, we look at explanatory definitions. In particular, we build on the work of Lehet, who describes explanatory definitions as those definitions that generate understanding. From this starting point, we investigate what types of understanding are associated with definitions, in order to develop a conception of explanatory definitions. Using the work of Baumberger, we show that definitions can be explanatory in two ways: symbolically or factually. Furthermore, we zoom in on the impact of contextual factors on the explanatory value of definitions. |
|
