Economics, mathematical and empirical

pp. 117-149

in: Mark Kac, Gian-Carlo Rota, Discrete thoughts, Berlin, Springer, 1986

Abstract

Because of mathematics’ precise, formal character, mathematical arguments remain sound even if they are long and complex. In contrast, common sense arguments can generally be trusted only if they remain short; even moderately long nonmathematical arguments rapidly become far-fetched and dubious.