Philosophy and Foundations of Mathematics

Book excerpt: L.E.J. Brouwer: Collected Works, Volume 1: Philosophy and Foundations of Mathematics focuses on the principles, operations, and approaches promoted by Brouwer in studying the philosophy and foundations of mathematics. The publication first ponders on the construction of mathematics. Topics include arithmetic of integers, negative numbers, measurable continuum, irrational numbers, Cartesian geometry, similarity group, characterization of the linear system of the Cartesian or Euclidean and hyperbolic space, and non-Archimedean uniform groups on the one-dimensional continuum. The book then examines mathematics and experience and mathematics and logic. Topics include denumerably unfinished sets, continuum problem, logic of relations, consistency proofs for formal systems independent of their interpretation, infinite numbers, and problems of space and time. The text is a valuable reference for students, mathematicians, and researchers interested in the contributions of Brouwer in the studies on the philosophy and foundations of mathematics.