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On the General Science of Mathematics: Ancient Commentators on Aristotle

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Iamblichus: On the General Science of Mathematics (Ancient Commentators on Aristotle)

by Laura Pohl

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Aristotle's writings on mathematics played a pivotal role in the development of ancient and medieval thought. His ideas on the nature of mathematics, its methods, and its applications had a profound impact on subsequent generations of scholars. One of the most important ways in which Aristotle's ideas were transmitted and interpreted was through the commentaries written by ancient scholars.

These commentaries provide valuable insights into the development of mathematical thought and the role of mathematics in ancient philosophy. They also shed light on the ways in which Aristotle's ideas were understood and applied by later thinkers.

The General Science of Mathematics

In his writings on mathematics, Aristotle argued that mathematics is a general science that deals with the properties of quantity. He distinguished between two main branches of mathematics: theoretical mathematics and practical mathematics.

Theoretical mathematics is concerned with the study of the properties of quantity in general. It includes disciplines such as arithmetic, geometry, and astronomy.

Practical mathematics is concerned with the application of mathematical principles to specific problems. It includes disciplines such as engineering, surveying, and navigation.

Aristotle believed that mathematics is an essential tool for understanding the world. He argued that mathematical principles are present in all of nature, and that mathematics can be used to explain a wide range of phenomena.

Ancient Commentators on Aristotle's Mathematics

Aristotle's writings on mathematics were widely studied and commented on by ancient scholars. Some of the most important commentators include:

Alexander of Aphrodisias (c. 200 CE)
Themistius (c. 320 CE)
Simplicius (c. 530 CE)
Philoponus (c. 529 CE)

These commentators provided detailed explanations of Aristotle's ideas on mathematics. They also discussed the implications of Aristotle's ideas for other areas of philosophy, such as metaphysics and ethics.

The Legacy of Ancient Commentators

The commentaries written by ancient scholars on Aristotle's writings on mathematics played a crucial role in the transmission of Aristotle's ideas to later generations. They helped to ensure that Aristotle's ideas were understood and applied by subsequent thinkers.

The commentaries also provide valuable insights into the development of mathematical thought and the role of mathematics in ancient philosophy. They are an essential resource for scholars who are interested in the history of mathematics and the philosophy of mathematics.

The commentaries written by ancient scholars on Aristotle's writings on mathematics are a valuable resource for understanding the development of mathematical thought and the role of mathematics in ancient philosophy. They provide detailed explanations of Aristotle's ideas on mathematics, and they discuss the implications of Aristotle's ideas for other areas of philosophy. The commentaries also provide insights into the ways in which Aristotle's ideas were understood and applied by later thinkers.

Iamblichus: On the General Science of Mathematics (Ancient Commentators on Aristotle)

by Laura Pohl

4.2 out of 5