Sep 4, 2023
The Paradigm of Science: Axiomatic Methods from Euclid to Gauss
- 10:00 to 12:00
- Seminar
- Max Planck Research Group (Final Theory Program)
- Vincenzo De Risi
Euclid's Elements were considered the paradigm of the scientific method for centuries. This was mainly due to the explicit use of first principles of demonstration (axioms), which was later applied to many other disciplines. The talk investigates the significance of such principles of demonstration in Euclid and ancient mathematics, showing that it was totally different from the modern understanding of axioms. It then discusses the major transformations that the concept of axiom underwent over the centuries, leading to the idea that different mathematical theories can be based on different axiomatic systems (non-Euclidean geometries). This transformation can be understood as a complete redefinition of the highest model of the scientific method.
Contact and Registration
Link to the Zoom-Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/94690790127 Meeting-ID: 946 9079 0127 no registration required. For more information contact Kseniia Mohelsky officeblum@mpiwg-berlin.mpg.de
About This Series
The seminar series of the Research Group “Historical Epistemology of the Final Theory Program” runs once a month, usually on a Monday at 14:00 in the seminar room of the Villa (Harnackstraße 5). The talks deal primarily with the history, philosophy, and foundations of modern (post-WWII) physics or with wider epistemological questions related to the work of the group. There are no pre-circulated papers.