Books about the foundations of mathematics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for books that cover the foundations of mathematics, including topics such as mathematical logic, axiomatic set theory, proof theory, model theory, type theory, and recursion theory. The context includes considerations for a high school student who is also taking university-level math courses.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about good books on the foundations of mathematics, specifically mentioning various subfields.
  • Another participant recommends "Introduction to Set Theory" by Hrbacek and Jech as a strong introduction to axiomatic set theory.
  • A different book suggested for mathematical logic is "Mathematical Logic" by Ebbinghaus, with a note that it may be challenging for beginners.
  • Another recommendation is "A Mathematical Introduction to Logic" by Enderton, which is also aimed at beginners.
  • One participant shares their positive experience with "A Tour Through Mathematical Logic" by Robert Wolf, describing it as beautifully written and accessible.
  • A further suggestion is Bourbaki's 'Theory of Sets', noted as a nice book to explore some foundational topics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of the recommended books, but there is no consensus on a single best resource, as different suggestions cater to varying levels of understanding and interest.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations may depend on the reader's background knowledge and comfort with complex mathematical concepts, which could affect their accessibility.

saltkraxen
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Hello,

Does anyone know of any good books that covers the foundations of mathematics (i.e. mathematical logic, axiomatic set theory, proof theory, model theory, type theory, recursion theory...)?

Keeping in mind that I'm still in high school. (Although I'm taking math courses at my local university.)

EDIT: Should this be in: "Math & Science Learning Materials"? Mod can move it if he/she thinks so... (This is my first post...)
 
Last edited:
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For axiomatic set theory, an extremely good introduction is "Introduction to Set theory" by Hrbacek and Jech: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0824779150/?tag=pfamazon01-20

A good book on mathematical logic is "Mathematical logic" by Ebbinghaus: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0387942580/?tag=pfamazon01-20
This may be hard for a beginner though, so check it out before buying.

A good introductory book on logic is "A mathematical introduction to logic" from Enderton: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0122384520/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks for the suggestions!
 
Bourbaki's 'Theory of Sets' covers some of that and is quite a nice book to go through.
 

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