Alternative to Euclid's Concept of Straight Line

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Euclid's definition of a straight line as the shortest distance between two points has been criticized for its vagueness and lack of rigor. Alternatives to Euclid's concepts include Hilbert's axiomatic geometry, which offers a more structured approach with 20 axioms compared to Euclid's five. Many find Euclid's reliance on common sense in proofs insufficient by modern standards. The discussion highlights a shared dissatisfaction with Euclid's definitions and a desire for clearer alternatives in understanding geometry. Overall, the conversation reflects a broader interest in exploring more rigorous frameworks in geometry beyond Euclidean principles.
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I'm not getting satisfied with Euclid's concept of straight line and shortest distance b/w to given points is a Straight line,At present I'm studying "The Elements".

Can you people know any alternatives on this topic?
I'm interested to study them.


Thanks:shy:
 
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pjunky said:
I'm not getting satisfied with Euclid's concept of straight line and shortest distance b/w to given points is a Straight line,At present I'm studying "The Elements".

Can you people know any alternatives on this topic?
I'm interested to study them.

By today's standards, Euclid wasn't entirely rigorous. In 1899, Hilbert gave a course on axiomatic geometry from his own formulation. Whereas Euclid describes geometry in 5 axioms, Hilbert does the same with no less than 20.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hilbert_axioms

Euclid relied more heavily on common sense in proofs. Granted, all proofs require an amount of common sense, it's clear that Hilbert assumed even less.
 
pjunky said:
I'm not getting satisfied with Euclid's concept of straight line and shortest distance b/w to given points is a Straight line,At present I'm studying "The Elements".

Can you people know any alternatives on this topic?
I'm interested to study them.


Thanks:shy:

As for Euclid's definition I.4 of the straight line, it is NOTORIOUSLY vague, so you are not alone.

(For the a-culturalists here on PF, check out the link)
 
wow..! thank you all people
I think I'm alone but so many are here,its great.
I'm very confusing with dimension concept too,not satisfying with concept of 3rd Dimension.
 
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