The Foundations of Mathematics

by David Tall and Ian Stewart

Book Overview

"There are many textbooks available for a so-called transition course from calculus to abstract mathematics. I have taught this course several times and always find it problematic. The Foundations of Mathematics (Stewart and Tall) is a horse of a different color. The writing is excellent and there is actually some useful mathematics. I definitely like this book."-- The Bulletin of Mathematics Books

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0198531656
• ISBN13: 9780198531654
• Release Date: December 1977
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
• Length: 276 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.5" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Comprehensive and clear

Stewart and Tall have written some excellent mathematical texts, and this book is one of them. It deals with the basics of mathematics and treats them in a clear but thorough way. Although it is probably not essential, it is a good accompaniment to anybody starting a mathematics degree. They take the approach that one should already be familiar with an idea (via examples) before seeing its definition. This works well, although sometimes the effect is that the pace is slow and the exposition is drawn out.

Excellent Book for the High School Mathsters

This book was written for those inquisitive/advanced high school students (6th formers in England) to give them an introduction to the number systems, formalization in mathematics and the concept of proof. Stewart is well-known for his clear writing and this book is an excellent example.