Is mathematics a social construct?

Mathematics can be seen as a social construct, as expressed by experts like Keith Devlin. Devlin explains that although mathematics often feels like an objective reality, it is ultimately a creation of the human mind built over generations. Numbers and mathematical concepts exist in our minds and reflect how humans understand the world rather than being purely external discoveries 1 2.

Additionally, Devlin discusses how mathematics is useful yet limited when applied to complex, real-world scenarios, such as financial systems. He warns that while mathematics provides valuable tools, relying solely on mathematical structures can lead to disasters, as evidenced by financial crises 3. In essence, math serves as both a lens for exploring the world and a mirror for examining human cognition and societal constructs.