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Mathematics in itself, as I say, is independent of experience. It begins with the free choice of symbols, to which are freely assigned properties, and it then proceeds to deduce the necessary rational implications of those properties.

— Herbert Dingle Science at the Crossroads (1972)

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Mathematics

More quotes by Herbert Dingle

A science in its infancy is the least satisfactory, and, at the same time, the most profitable theme for a general description.

A great idea invariably creates as many problems as it solves: that is a sign of its greatness.

Between the Charybdis of inaccuracy and the Scylla of abstruseness, the course is narrow and the sea is rough.

The numerical side of the theory of relativity is derived from the failure of all attempts to detect the relative motion of matter and ether.

The aim of the scientist is to express, in as simple a statement as possible, the principles underlying the order and arrangement of phenomena.

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If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear to man as it is: infinite.

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Pure mathematics consists entirely of assertions to the effect that, if such and such a proposition is true of anything, then such and such another proposition is true of that thing.

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Attribution

Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Herbert Dingle (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.