Empiricism, Logic and Mathematics: Philosophical Papers

Description

Empiricism, Logic and Mathematics: Philosophical Papers By Hans Hahn (Author), Edited by Brian McGuinness Empiricism, Logic and Mathematics: Philosophical Papers is a significant collection of essays by Hans Hahn, a prominent figure of the Vienna Circle and one of the leading advocates of logical positivism. Edited and introduced by Brian McGuinness, this volume gathers Hahn's most influential philosophical writings, offering deep insights into the development of early analytic philosophy, the foundations of mathematics, and the role of empiricism in scientific inquiry. Hans Hahn was not only a mathematician of considerable stature but also a rigorous philosopher whose work bridged the gap between formal logic and philosophical analysis. In this collection, readers will find Hahn’s explorations of the epistemological and logical underpinnings of mathematics, where he emphasizes the empirical basis of knowledge and challenges the metaphysical assumptions often embedded in traditional philosophy. Hahn’s essays delve into the logicist and formalist foundations of mathematics, reflecting his commitment to clarity, precision, and scientific rigor. The book also addresses broader philosophical issues, including the nature of language, the significance of verification in determining meaning, and the rejection of metaphysics as a source of genuine knowledge. Hahn’s work is a testament to the intellectual spirit of the Vienna Circle, sharing its commitment to a unified science grounded in logical analysis and empiricism. Brian McGuinness’s careful editing and scholarly introduction provide helpful context for Hahn’s contributions, situating them within the broader movement of logical positivism and the intellectual environment of early 20th-century philosophy. For scholars and students of philosophy, particularly those interested in the history of analytic philosophy, logical empiricism, and the philosophy of mathematics, Empiricism, Logic and Mathematics offers an invaluable collection of thought-provoking and foundational essays.