L.E.J. Brouwer (1881-1966) is best known for his revolutionary ideas on topology and foundations of mathematics (intuitionism). The present collection contains a mixture of letters; university and faculty correspondence has been included, some of which shed light on the student years, and in particular on the exchange of letters with his PhD adviser, Korteweg.

Acting as the natural sequel to the publication of Brouwer's biography, this book provides instrumental reading for those wishing to gain a deeper understanding of Brouwer and his role in the twentieth century. Striking a good balance of biographical and scientific information, the latter deals with innovations in topology (Cantor-Schoenflies style and the new topology) and foundations. The topological period in his research is well represented in correspondence with Hilbert, Schoenflies, Poincaré, Blumenthal, Lebesgue, Baire, Koebe, and foundational topics are discussed in letters exchanged with Weyl, Fraenkel, Heyting, van Dantzig and others. There is also a large part of correspondence on matters related to the interbellum scientific politics.

This book will appeal to both graduate students and researchers with an interest in topology, the history of mathematics, the foundations of mathematics, philosophy and general science.

Facilitates a deeper understanding of L.E.J.Brouwer and his role in the 20th century Presents a wide collection of original letters spanning the personal, business and scientific life of Brouwer Sheds light on Brouwer's innovations in topology and foundations (intuitionism) Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Autorentext
Dirk van Dalen studied at the University of Amsterdam, where he obtained his PhD. He has taught since 1960 at Utrecht University, where he is full professor. He also taught at MIT and Oxford. His technical work is mostly in the area of intuitionistic mathematics and logic. He uses to call attention to the benefits and challenges of constructive methods.

Inhalt

Introduction.- 1900 - 1910.- 1911 - 1920.- 1921 - 1930.- 1931 - 1940.- 1941 - 1950.- 1951 - 1965.- Appendices.- List of Enclosures, Editorial Comments and Editorial.- Supplements.-Biographical information.- List of letters.- Abbreviations.- Organizations and journals.