An Essay on the Foundations of Geometry

An 1897 account of geometrical concepts in relation to logic, psychology and mathematics, illuminating the development of Russell's philosophical perspective.

Bertrand A. W. Russell (Author)

9781107679450, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 19 April 2012

218 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.3 cm, 0.33 kg

Originally published in 1897, this book was based on the dissertation Russell presented for the Fellowship Examination of Trinity College, Cambridge, together with a series of lectures given in the USA around the same time. It provides an account of geometrical concepts in relation to logic, psychology and mathematics, shedding light on the development of Russell's philosophical perspective. This is a highly readable text that will be of value to anyone with an interest in geometry, philosophy and Russell's early thought.

Preface
Introduction: our problem defined by its relations to logic, psychology and mathematics
1. A short history of metageometry
2. Critical account of some previous philosophical theories of geometry
3A. The axioms of projective geometry
3B. The axioms of metrical geometry
4. Philosophical consequences.

Subject Areas: Geometry [PBM]