Was Mathematics Discovered or Invented?

Physicist S. James Gates, Jr. and science writer Margaret Wertheim discuss with Steve Paulson whether mathematics is an invention or has an independent existence.

[mosesexodus]

Mathematics, like Language, in its infinite manifestations is constantly being discovered. Mathematics, like Language, is the expression of an Intelligence that permeates All that Is, All that Was, and All that Will Be, in this and any other universe of existence. This expression facilitates self discovery of Intelligence with Itself within the 'physical' universe through the filter of us All.

[damianbarnes]

This is very simple. Mathematics has always existed in nature, we just use different formulations to comprehend just like languages.

[jakeroberts]

Is mathematics essential for physical particles to exist? If so which came first the universe made up of particles or mathematics or did them both spontaneously appear at the same moment fully defined from nothing?

[prof]

Technically, understanding of numeracy is an evolved trait that is not shared independently by humans. Therefore we did not invent it, we just are smart enough to observe it naturally. Although the proof is rather

[yachi]

It is, I think, a great oversimplification to claim that mathematics was invented and not discovered. The answer may have to do with the way our brain has evolved to comprehend math.