Abstract
This article looks at analysis of concepts as a search for conditions of intelligibility, where intelligibility is recognized to be a value. Choosing the circle as an exemplary concept, we trace the discovery of a quadratic polynomial equation, the sine and cosine functions, and the nth roots of unity ‘inside’ the circle, as mathematicians discover new conditions of intelligibility for the abstract notion of a circle. Then we trace the uses of circles in poems by Marlowe, Shakespeare and Keats. What we discover ‘inside’ the circle there is of course quite different (a devil, a planet, a sleeping girl), for what the poet seeks are really conditions of the meaningfulness (intelligibility) of human life. The notion of containment and of intelligibility changes as we move from the investigation of mathematical problems to that of problematic human beings. Still, the circle remains as part of experience and part of our best conceptualization of the natural world.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
