A Philosophical Origin of the Mathematical Zero

What is it about?

This article argues that the mathematical zero was not invented for practical purposes. Rather, the abstract philosophical idea of "nonexistence", which was prevalent in India, gave rise to zero. The article discusses the evidence and plausible period of zero's origin in India.

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Photo by Chris Buckwald on Unsplash

Photo by Chris Buckwald on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This article investigates zero's origin from an unusual and poorly explored perspective, which is complementary to other studies, such as those based on epigraphic and paleographic evidence. For example, the philosophical foundation of the mathematical zero is explained. The 'living evidence' of word-numerals as a proof of the Indian origin of zero is discussed. Contrary to what is typically believed, it is argued that neither a place-value number system nor a placeholder in such a system were required to conceptualize zero. Moreover, the article shows that the comments of the Syrian Bishop Severus Sebokht, which are often used to argue against the Indian origin of zero, do not provide evidence against such an origin.