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Foundations without Foundationalism: A Case for Second-order Logic
Author(s): Stewart Shapiro (Author)
- Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
- Publication Date: 18 May 2000
- Edition: Revised ed.
- Language: English
- Print length: 300 pages
- ISBN-10: 0198250290
- ISBN-13: 9780198250296
Book Description
The central contention of this book is that second-order logic has a central role to play in laying the foundations of mathematics. In order to develop the argument fully, the author presents a detailed description of higher-order logic, including a comprehensive discussion of its semantics. He goes on to demonstrate the prevalence of second-order concepts in mathematics and the extent to which mathematical ideas can be formulated in higher-order logic. He also shows how first-order languages are often insufficient to codify many concepts in contemporary mathematics, and thus that both first-and higher-order logics are needed to fully reflect current work. Throughout, the emphasis is on discussing the associated philosophical and historical issues and the implications they have for foundational studies. For the most part, the author assumes little more than a familiarity with logic comparable to that provided in a beginning graduate course which includes the incompleteness of arithmetic and the Lowenheim-Skolem theorems. All those concerned with the foundations of mathematics will find this a thought-provoking discussion of some of the central issues in the field today.
Editorial Reviews
Review
Contains more on second-order logic than is readily available in any other textbook or survey. Philosophically, the book also contains many words of wisdom. ― Journal of Symbolic Logic
About the Author
Stewart Shapiro is Professor of Philosophy at Ohio State University.
