The Flight from Application

Through Quinean appeal to their alleged “ontologicalOntology needs,” contemporary philosophical thinking continues to blend the working methodologies of contemporary physics and mathematics into a coarse amalgam that fails to capture the concrete considerations that inform how these entangled subjects enlarge and thrive within real life practice. In our individual manners, Maddy and I have each attempted to combat the ensuing methodological distortions by considering in closer detail the actual motivations that operate within the various sectors of “pure” and “applied” mathematical division. To this end, Maddy has occasionally cited traditional deflationist motifs as a convenient tool for isolating her specific localized projects. In this essay, I recommend against employing this particular mode of “divide and conquer” tactic.