Conversations with a Mathematician

The author, G. J. Chaitin, shows that God plays dice not only in quantum mechanics but also in the foundations of mathematics. According to Chaitin there exist mathematical facts that are true for no reason. This fascinating and provocative text contains a collection of his most wide-ranging and non-technical lectures and interviews. It will be of interest to anyone concerned with the philosophy of mathematics, the similarities and differences between physics and mathematics, and mathematics as art.

Inhalt

A century of controversy over the foundations of mathematics (Lecture).- How to be a mathematician (TV interview).- The creative life: science vs. art (Interview).- Algorithmic information theory & the foundations of mathematics (Lecture).- Randomness in arithmetic (TV interview).- The reason for my life (Interview).- Undecidability & randomness in pure mathematics (Lecture).- Math, science & fantasy (Interview).- Sensual mathematics (TV interview).- Final thoughts.- Recommended further reading.