The course is offered in the framework of “basic requirements” (hashlamot) for candidates to the MA degree in the Cohn Institute for History and Philosophy of Science. It can be taken by additional students as well. It is intended for students whose undergraduate degree is not in the exact sciences or engineering field. The purpose is to enable a basic, first-hand knowledge of the world of concepts, main methods of work, and ways of thinking in mathematics. There is no intention that student taking this course will make mathematics a main focus of his course of studies at the institute. Rather, it is aimed at providing her with a general background and a minimal basis for understanding the work of those engaged in mathematical fields.

Emphasis will be placed on topics with implications for discussions of a philosophical nature related with mathematics.

The course does not assume early knowledge of mathematics, beyond that taught in high school. There is no intention to provide technical skills and fluency in solving mathematical problems in different fields. At the same time, students will be required to solve exercises in all the subjects discussed in class. These exercises are designed to clarify different aspects of the concepts and methods discussed in the classroom. These exercises will also serve as a basis for the final test of the course.

Course Requirements

Students will receive their grade by way of a home test. The test is based on reading two texts dealing with subjects related to the material learned in the course, but which raise additional ideas that were not directly studied in the course. Additional questions will be more technical, and they will require the student to demonstrate understanding in the concepts and exercises learned throughout the course, and which will be reflected in the exercises distributed throughout the course and that will be partially solved in class, as part of the lessons.