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Single Idea 17967

[from 'Axiomatic Thought' by David Hilbert, in 6. Mathematics / B. Foundations for Mathematics / 2. Proof in Mathematics ]

Full Idea

It is necessary to study the essence of mathematical proof itself if one wishes to answer such questions as the one about decidability in a finite number of operations.

Gist of Idea

To decide some questions, we must study the essence of mathematical proof itself

Source

David Hilbert (Axiomatic Thought [1918], [53])

Book Reference

'From Kant to Hilbert: sourcebook Vol. 2', ed/tr. Ewald,William [OUP 1996], p.1115