Zermelo's Axiom of Choice: Its Origins, Development, and Influence (Dover Books on Mathematics)

Book Details

• Author: Gregory H. Moore

• Publisher: Dover

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9780486488417

• Cover: Paperback

• Pages: 448

• Release Date: 21-02-2013

• Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.2 x 1.0 inches

About the Book

The Axiom of Choice by Gregory H. Moore is a definitive historical account of one of mathematics’ most debated and influential assumptions. Often regarded as the most controversial axiom in mathematical history, the Axiom of Choice is central to a vast array of disciplines—from set theory and mathematical logic to algebra, topology, and analysis—frequently appearing under alternate forms like Zorn’s Lemma.

This in-depth and scholarly volume is the only comprehensive English-language history of the axiom. Moore traces its implicit applications in the 19th century, its formal articulation by Zermelo in 1904, and the fierce intellectual debate it sparked across major European and American mathematical communities. The book explores how the axiom catalyzed the axiomatization of set theory in 1908 and analyzes its profound influence on the structure and philosophy of modern mathematics throughout the 20th century.

Carefully written to be accessible to advanced undergraduate students, yet rich and rigorous enough for professional mathematicians and historians of mathematics, this updated edition includes a new preface and an expanded bibliography reflecting the latest research and scholarly discourse. It is an essential resource for those interested in the foundations of mathematics, logic, and the evolution of mathematical thought.