The Limits of Mathematics: A Course on Information Theory and the Limits of Formal Reasoning

Chaitin, Gregory J.

ISBN 10: 981308359X / ISBN 13: 9789813083592

Published by Springer Verlag, 1997

Seller Inventory # 001532

Synopsis:

This book is the final version of a course on algorithmic information theory and the epistemology of mathematics and physics. It discusses Einstein and Goedel's views on the nature of mathematics in the light of information theory, and sustains the thesis that mathematics is quasi-empirical. There is a foreword by Cris Calude of the University of Auckland, and supplementary material is available at the author's web site. The special feature of this book is that it presents a new "hands on" didatic approach using LISP and Mathematica software. The reader will be able to derive an understanding of the close relationship between mathematics and physics. "The Limits of Mathematics is a very personal and idiosyncratic account of Greg Chaitin's entire career in developing algorithmic information theory. The combination of the edited transcripts of his three introductory lectures maintains all the energy and content of the oral presentations, while the material on AIT itself gives a full explanation of how to implement Greg's ideas on real computers for those who want to try their hand at furthering the theory." John Casti, Santa Fe Institute

Review: "...a very personal and idiosyncratic account of Greg Chaitins entire career in developing algorithmic information theory. The combination of the edited transcripts of his three introductory lectures maintains all the energy and content of the oral presentations, while the material on AIT itself gives a full explanation of how to implement Gregs ideas on real computers ..." John Casti, Santa Fe Institute

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Limits of Mathematics: A Course on ...
Publisher: Springer Verlag
Publication Date: 1997
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Fine
Dust Jacket Condition: Fine
Edition: 1st Edition