Heller M, Woodin W.H. (eds.) Infinity. New research frontiers (CUP, 2011)(ISBN 1107003873)(O)(327s)_MAml_

CHAPTER 11God and Infinity: Directions forFuture ResearchGraham OppyPhilosophical investigation – in particular, metaphysical investigation – is rarelyadvanced through the consultation of dictionaries. In the present case, however, itwill repay us to begin by considering the entries for “infinite,” “infinity,” and “theinfinite” that are found in the OED (The Oxford English Dictionary, Vol. V, H-K):Infinite adj. (omitting obsolete and archaic uses)1. Having no limit or end (real or assignable); boundless, unlimited, endless; immeasurablygreat in extent, duration, or other respect. Chiefly of God or His attributes; also of space,time, etc., in which it passes into the mathematical use.2. In loose or hyperbolical sense: Indefinitely or exceedingly great; exceeding measurementor calculation; immense, vast.3. Math. Of a quantity or magnitude: Having no limit; greater than any assignable quantityor magnitude (opp. to finite). Of a line or surface: Extending indefinitely without limit,and not returning to itself in any finite distance (opp. to closed).4. Infinite series: a series of quantities or expressions which may be indefinitely continuedwithout ever coming to an end (but may or may not have a finite value or “limit” towhich it approaches as more and more terms are taken).5. Gram. Applied to those parts of the verb which are not limited by person or number.Infinite absol. or as sb.1. That which is infinite or has no limit; an infinite being, thing, quantity, extent, etc. Nowalmost always in the sing. with the; esp. as a designation of the Deity or the absoluteBeing.2. Math. An infinite quantity.Infinity n.1. The quality or attribute of being infinite or having no limit; boundlessness, illimitableness(esp. as an attribute of Deity)2. Something that is infinite; infinite extent, amount, duration, etc.; a boundless space orexpanse; an endless or unlimited time.233