an Outline of Set Theory

This book is designed for use in a one semester problem-oriented course in undergraduate set theory. The combination of level and format is somewhat unusual and deserves an explanation. Normally, problem courses are offered to graduate students or selected undergraduates. I have found, however, that the experience is equally valuable to ordinary mathematics majors.

This volume explores A.P. Morse’s (1911-1984) development of a formal language for writing mathematics, his application of that language in set theory and mathematical analysis, and his unique perspective on mathematics. The editor brings together a variety of Morse’s works in this compilation, including Morse's book A Theory of Sets, Second Edition (1986), in addition to material from another of Morse’s publications, Web Derivatives, and notes for a course on analysis from the early 1950's. Because Morse provided very little in the way of explanation in his written works, the editor’s commentary serves to outline Morse’s goals, give informal explanations of Morse’s formal language, and compare Morse’s often unique approaches to more traditional approaches. Minor corrections to Morse’s previously published works have also been incorporated into the text, including some updated axioms, theorems, and definitions. The editor’s introduction thoroughly details the corrections and changes made and provides readers with valuable insight on Morse’s methods.

Study smarter and stay on top of your discrete mathematics course with the bestselling Schaum's Outline—now with the NEW Schaum's app and website!

Set theory and the axioms of probability; the pervasiveness of information.

The first part of this volume is based on a course taught at Princeton University in 1961-62; at that time, an excellent set ofnotes was prepared by David Cantor, and it was originally my intention to make these notes available to the mathematical public with only quite minor changes. Then, among some old papers of mine, I accidentally came across a long-forgotten manuscript by ChevaIley, of pre-war vintage (forgotten, that is to say, both by me and by its author) which, to my taste at least, seemed to have aged very weIl. It contained abrief but essentially com- plete account of the main features of c1assfield theory, both local and global; and it soon became obvious that the usefulness of the intended volume would be greatly enhanced if I inc1uded such a treatment of this topic. It had to be expanded, in accordance with my own plans, but its outline could be preserved without much change. In fact, I have adhered to it rather c10sely at some critical points.