Jean-Pierre Changeux

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Conversations on Mind, Matter, and Mathematics

Jean-Pierre Changeux; Alain Connes

Synopsis:
Do numbers and the other objects of mathematics enjoy a timeless existence independent of human minds, or are they the products of cerebral invention? Do we discover them, or do we construct them? Does the physical world actually obey mathematical laws, or does it seem to conform to them simply because physicists have increasingly been able to make mathematical sense of it? Jean-Pierre Changeux, an internationally renowned neurobiologist, and Alain Connes, one of the most eminent living mathematicians, find themselves deeply divided by these questions. Why should order exist in the world at all, and why it should be comprehensible to human beings, is the topic at the heart of these remarkable dialogues. "[The authors'] passion for discerning the truth about important issues and for formulating thoughts as precisely as possible shines through these conversations.... A stimulating and illuminating book." --Philip Kitcher, The New York Times Book Review "This wonderfully eloquent and playful colloquy of two brilliant minds gives new life to the old notion of Dialogue, a sadly forgotten form now.... I love this book!" --Oliver Sacks, M.D. "English-speaking readers can now benefit from the philosophical insights of two outstanding intellects--each a leader in his own field, each bringing his own distinctive perspective to deep and challenging issues. Conversations on Mind, Matter, and Mathematics is fascinating." --Roger Penrose

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Other editions: Softcover - 2009, Hardcover - 2005, Hardcover - 2004, 2003, Softcover - 2002, 2002, Softcover - 2002, Softcover - 2001, 1998, 1997