xblade0

That's where I'm confused. Mathematics is relation, but how can we make relations when we have nothing to relate? Logic would seem to state that an action without an actioned object cannot be completed. If we are comparing nothing (non-quantity), how can we compare? Then again, maybe I misunderstand. I'm working on the principle that any symbol is a quantity because it is defined as something over nothing, and must be related to another symbol in order to give the operation more than a reflexive meaning.

Hey, you got math debate in my philosophy debate! I'm gonna rewind this thread. Rather interesting that base mechanics such as quantitive theory are still being fought over in social circles, but I think it uncovers a more pertinent question: if mathematics is defined as "the science of numbers and their operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, and abstractions and of space configurations and their structure, measurement, transformations, and generalizations" (source: Merriam-Webster), how can we, in good sense, apply and then remove a basic tenet and classify it under one term? To many, myself included, the foundation of mathematics is a relation between terms, which would seem to imply a quantity created through the relation of identity, or at least the relation of terms. (X and Y being different by assertion that we define them as such) If we are to say there is no quantity in certain cases, how can there be relation in these cases, and therefore, how can they be mathematics? Sorry, to spam Webster, but I believe quantity defined as "the aspect in which a thing is measurable in terms of greater, less, or equal or of increasing or decreasing magnitude; or ;the subject of a mathematical operation" is applicable. According to this, the example of the bear's cubs and the running gnus would be considered both quantity and mathematics.