Practical Foundations of Mathematics

by Paul Taylor

Overview

Practical Foundations of Mathematics explains the basis of mathematical reasoning both in pure mathematics itself (algebra and topology in particular) and in computer science. In addition to the formal logic, this volume examines the relationship between computer languages and "plain English" mathematical proofs. The book introduces the reader to discrete mathematics, reasoning, and categorical logic. It offers a new approach to term algebras, induction and recursion and proves in detail the equivalence of types and categories. Each idea is illustrated by wide-ranging examples, and followed critically along its natural path, transcending disciplinary boundaries across universal algebra, type theory, category theory, set theory, sheaf theory, topology and programming. Students and teachers of computing, mathematics and philosophy will find this book both readable and of lasting value as a reference work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521631075
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	05/13/1999
Series:	Cambridge Studies in Advanced Mathematics , #59
Pages:	588
Product dimensions:	6.18(w) x 9.29(h) x 1.38(d)

Table of Contents

1. First order reasoning; 2. Types and induction; 3. Posets and lattices; 4. Cartesian closed categories; 5. Limits and colimits; 6. Structural recursion; 7. Adjunctions; 8. Algebra with dependent types; 9. The quantifiers.

Editorial Reviews

"Taylor paints rhapsodically on a broad, richly detailed canvas replete with examples and exercises. He invites readers to dip in at any point and structures his book accordingly. He embroiders his text with a running commentary that often fascinates...this book covers important ground in an original style." Choice

From the Publisher