Using a cognitive model to explain mathematical thought

Abstract

This paper uses the cognitive model of mental symmetry to explain how major elements of mathematical thought emerge from the structure of the mind. Mental symmetry suggests the mind can function in the three primary ways of technical thought, normal thought, and mental networks. The hypothesis is presented that mathematical thought can be analyzed cognitively as the interaction between abstract and concrete technical thought. Going further, abstract technical thought is seeded by concrete technical thought but can then function independently of concrete technical thought. This hypothesis is supported by looking at the history and context of math.