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Embodiment of infinity in mathematics

  • University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
    ,
  • Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Open access

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Original language

English

Article number

1321940

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Frontiers in Psychology (Volume 14)

Publication milestones

  • Published - 01/01/2023

Publication status

Published - 01/01/2023

Publication IDs

  • Scopus: 85184452760

Abstract

In this article, we discuss the embodiment of infinity as one of fundamental concepts in mathematics. In contrast to the embodiment of many other mathematical concepts, the embodiment of infinity is an endless dynamic process. In embodying +∞, an object moves rightward toward a previously-set limit and passes it. Then, a new limit is set on the right side of the moving object. The moving object continues its movement and passes it as well. The moving object can pass any limit. In other words, there is no impassable limit for it. In embodying -∞, a similar process happens but the movement is leftward. Embodiment of infinitely small quantities has a basic similarity to the embodiment of infinitely large quantities, although it is different in some respects. We call the embodiment of infinity as iterative embodiment. It is iterative because the process of setting a new limit and passing it is repeated endlessly. Finally, it is suggested that in the process of embodying infinitely large and infinitely small quantities, the visual system and the motor system play important roles, as this process involves spatial concepts and movement.

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