Mathematical Logic and the Foundations of Mathematics: An Introductory Survey (Dover Books on Mathematics) [Paperback]

G. T. Kneebone (Author), Mathematics (Author)

Book Description

Series: Dover Books on Mathematics | Publication Date: April 25, 2001

Graduate-level historical study is ideal for students intending to specialize in the topic, as well as those who only need a general treatment. Part I discusses traditional and symbolic logic. Part II explores the foundations of mathematics, emphasizing Hilbert's metamathematics. Part III focuses on the philosophy of mathematics.

Product Details

• Paperback: 452 pages
• Publisher: Dover Publications (April 25, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0486417123
• ISBN-13: 978-0486417127
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 2.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,786,981 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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23 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Nothing Great., January 24, 2004

By 

Jason T (Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Mathematical Logic and the Foundations of Mathematics: An Introductory Survey (Dover Books on Mathematics) (Paperback)

This is a recently issued Dover reprint of a 1963 Van Nostrand book. It contains a rough coverage of some mathematics, some history, and some philosophy. You need some familiarity with mathematical logic to read the book, but it certainly isnt "graduate-level" as claimed in the editorial review. It's divided into three parts. Part 1 is mostly a shoddy and outdated introduction to symbolic logic. People who dont already know this material will probably be confused by the presentation, and people who have taken a class in mathematical logic will find it dull and clumsy - skim it. Part 2 is a history of the major developments in mathematical logic and foundations from around 1870 to 1940. This coverage is ok but dated, not so much because of the omission of more recent events, but for the lack of critical perspective from the period Kneebone is discussing. He reviews all the historical material you would expect in an introductory survey, without offering anything particularly insightful, and sometimes fails to emphasize the truly important innovations against the background of lesser technical apparatus. Part 3 is a lightweight look at philosophy of mathematics, the longest section focusing on Whitehead's epistemology. Overall the book is routine, broad but not deep, and somewhat outdated.