Set Theory for the Working Mathematician
This text presents methods of modern set theory as tools that can be usefully applied to other areas of mathematics. The author describes numerous applications in abstract geometry and real analysis and, in some cases, in topology and algebra. The book begins with a tour of the basics of set theory, culminating in a proof of Zorn's Lemma and a discussion of some of its applications. The author then develops the notions of transfinite induction and descriptive set theory, with applications to the theory of real functions. The final part of the book presents the tools of 'modern' set theory: Martin's Axiom, the Diamond Principle, and elements of forcing. Written primarily as a text for beginning graduate or advanced level undergraduate students, this book should also interest researchers wanting to learn more about set theoretical techniques applicable to their fields.
- Large number of examples for the basic techniques
- Applications to other areas of mathematics
- Simple presentation of modern methods
Reviews & endorsements
' … the author has produced a very valuable resource for the working mathematician. Postgraduates and established researchers in many (perhaps all) areas of mathematics will benefit from reading it.' Ian Tweddle, Proceedings of the Edinburgh Mathematical Society
Product details
November 1997Hardback
9780521594417
252 pages
237 × 159 × 19 mm
0.53kg
Available
Table of Contents
- Part I. Basics of Set Theory:
- 1. Axiomatic set theory
- 2. Relations, functions and Cartesian product
- 3. Natural, integer and real numbers
- Part II. Fundamental Tools of Set Theory:
- 4. Well orderings and transfinite induction
- 5. Cardinal numbers
- Part III. The Power of Recursive Definitions:
- 6. Subsets of Rn
- 7. Strange real functions
- Part IV. When Induction is Too Short:
- 8. Martin's axiom
- 9. Forcing
- Part V. Appendices: A. Axioms of set theory
- B. Comments on forcing method
- C. Notation.