Mathematical Proof

Does the proof have to guarantee the truth of the mathematical statement S? Can it do so in principle?

Your answer may include discussion of the following questions:

• What are the conditions for knowing S?
• How is the proof of S related to mathematical objects?
• What is the rôle of proofs in mathematical practice?

Readings

(Steiner, 1975, ch. 3);

Resnik (1992)

Further readings

Tait (1981);

Benacerraf (1973)