On feasible numbers

Abstract

A formal approach to feasible numbers, as well as to middle and small numbers, is introduced, based on ideas of Parikh (1971) and improving his formalization. The “vague” set F of feasible numbers intuitively satisfies the axioms 0 ∈ F, F+1⊑F and 2¹⁰⁰⁰ ∉ F, where the latter is stronger than a condition considered by Parikh, and seems to be treated rigorously here for the first time. Our technical considerations, though quite simple, have some unusual consequences. A discussion of methodological questions and of relevance to the foundations of mathematics and of computer science is an essential part of the paper.