Should we believe in infinity?

Abstract

This article explores the question of whether infinity truly exists or if it is merely an abstract concept created by the human mind. The author reviews arguments for and against the existence of infinity from physics, philosophy, and mathematics, but ultimately concludes that neither side has a clear advantage. The author continues by discussing the implications of believing in infinity for our ethical decision-making, rejecting the idea that an infinite universe implies futility and arguing that our actions can still have a significant impact on the overall amount of suffering in the universe. Finally, the author examines different constructions of infinity, such as Cantor’s transfinite cardinals, hyperreal numbers, and surreal numbers, and considers the question of which infinity is most appropriate for ethical reasoning. – AI-generated abstract.